Kornit has achieved a significant industry milestone today. The industry experts at Printing United Alliance have just awarded the Pinnacle Product Award for "Best Technology" to the Atlas MAX POLY solution.

This highly respected industry award singles out those technologies predicted to have a significant impact on the world of digital textiles - now and in the future. Kornit's solution was recognised as being an industry-first direct-to-garment system delivering superior quality digital decoration for vibrant, colourful design on polyester and poly-blended apparel.

When Kornit first announced the Atlas MAX POLY at our Fashion Week Tel Aviv last year, the intent was to help brands and producers capitalize on demand for fashionable, unique sportswear and apparel - combining polyester and poly-blends with vivid designs across a range of colors. The belief was the Atlas MAX POLY had the potential to transform the professional and recreational sport apparel and teamwear markets, currently limited by limitations in mass customisation of polyester.

Today's Pinnacle Product award recognised the Atlas MAX POLY as an industry-first direct-to-garment solution delivering superior quality digital decoration for vibrant, colorful design on polyester and poly-blended apparel. Printing United Alliance also noted the solution is a true "game-changer" in on-demand, sustainable digital production, set to have a dramatic impact on the industry.Kornit will exclusively be showcasing the Atlas MAX POLY at Printing United Expo in October, booth C1322.

To celebrate the launch of its magazine, ‘Possible’, Australia’s leading printing and marketing service provider, Kwik Kopy Australia, held an event on 31 August 2023, at Green Moustache in North Sydney. Hosted by Kwik Kopy Australia’s CEO, Sonia Shwabsky, 22 entrepreneurs, business owners and media from all walks of life gathered to network and engage in the launch. 

Teaming up with Engage Media, Kwik Kopy proudly presented the "Possible Magazine" - a powerful testament to the wonders achieved when human passion meets innovation and tenacity. In an era saturated with digital and AI-driven content, Kwik Kopy champions the tactile magic of print. The magazine is established on the belief that the physical touch of a story leaves an indelible mark and ensures inspirational narratives resonate more deeply with its readers.

“Having worked in the marketing of businesses for many years, it has always been my dream to bring high-quality, beautiful content to life in the physical form of print. Each issue will serve as a beacon of inspiration, shining a light on those trailblazing entrepreneurs and creative geniuses who turn their groundbreaking ideas into reality,” said Sonia Shwabsky, CEO of Kwik Kopy Australia, in her opening speech. 

The first issue of Possible sees focus on Sendle Founder, James Chin Moody, who took on the outlandish mission of challenging a government-owned postal service. It also highlights other stories of creatives, including Jordy Wilson, an influencer and content creator, who spoke at the event. 

The launch gathered entrepreneur attendees including Liam Gostencnik, Co-Founder of Bae Juice, Thomas and Anabelle Burns, Co-Founders of Femme Organic, and TikToker and small-business owner, Ebony May. 

“Kwik Kopy stands firm in our belief that creativity has the power to reshape our world. And with ‘Possible’, we offer a stage for those pioneering individuals who, with their work, are indeed reshaping our collective future. To every entrepreneur, marketer, designer, and anyone who appreciates creativity's profound power: ‘Possible’ is your narrative… We trust that ‘Possible’ will resonate with your own stories of innovation and perseverance,” Shwabsky continued. 

To download a FREE copy of the Possible magazine, please visit kwikkopy.com.au/possible-magazine.

MUTOH, an industry leader in wide format printers has been honoured by PRINTING United Alliance for the 12th year in a row for product excellence and quality. Having received four new Pinnacle Product Awards, 2023 is a very exciting year for MUTOH. The Pinnacle Product Awards recognize products that improve or advance the printing industry with exceptional contributions to quality, capability, and productivity. Entries are evaluated by a highly qualified panel of judges from across the printing industry in more than 58 categories including analogue, digital, output, and non-output.

 MUTOH is proud to have won four awards in the following output categories this year:

• ValueJet-1638UH Mark II – UV/Latex Hybrid (under US$100K)
• XpertJet-661UF 19”x23” UV-LED Printer – Tabletop Flatbed (Industrial/Small Item Decoration)
• XpertJet- 1642WR Pro – RTR Dye Sublimation on Textile (under US$50K)
• XpertJet-1462UF – UV/Latex Flatbed (under US$70K)

MUTOH America recently launched the XpertJet 1462UF at the beginning of this month, (Australian release in September) following its debut of this cutting-edge UV-LED Flatbed at ISA earlier this year. This printer builds upon the success of the XpertJet 661UF model, taking its capabilities to new heights. Boasting an expansive table dimension of 1420mm x 700mm, the XpertJet 1462UF commands attention within the industry. Whether you’re exploring innovative ventures such as ADA-compliant braille, awards, or home decor, or seeking to enhance your existing UV printing capabilities, the XpertJet 1462UF stands out as the ultimate solution.

MUTOH has always taken great pride in the design and manufacturing of it’s made-in-Japan quality products and top-notch service. MUTOH is committed to constant innovation and leading advancements in technology.

“We’re extremely proud to have received four more Pinnacle Product Awards from PRINTING United Alliance for the 2023 year. These awards highlight our diverse contributions across various output technology categories. The transformative potential of the XpertJet 1462UF remains a steadfast assurance, empowering users to amplify profitability, broaden application horizons, and unlock novel market avenues.” – Brian Phipps, G.M and President of MUTOH America Inc.

Mutoh Australia M.D. Russell Cavenagh commented, “Being awarded 4 more Pinnacle Product Awards is further testimony to the innovation, value, and outstanding Japanese quality of Mutoh printers”.

To learn more about MUTOH’s award-winning line of products, visit www.mutoh.com.au or contact via sales@mutoh-au.com or 02-9437 1366

Roland DG, the world's leading provider of digital printing solutions, showcased its ‘50 Shades of Ginger’ colour index at this year’s Redhead Days Festival in Tilburg, Netherlands on Friday 25th - Sunday 27th August 2023.

The event, the largest redhead festival in the world, saw thousands of people gathered in the city centre of Tilburg to celebrate the beauty of red hair.

Roland DG hosted the event’s first ever ‘red’ carpet experience for festival attendees to snap a picture with their perfect hair match against its ‘50 Shades of Red’ photo wall. Using TrueVIS colour printing technology, the brand created 50 unique shades of vibrant reds and oranges to create the colour chart, displaying the vast spectrum of red hair. During the festival, Roland DG’s TrueVIS technology printed the brightest, most vivid and accurate colours - even notoriously tricky reds and oranges.

Moreover, the brand designed and printed an array of large-format signage for this year’s event including decorating the entrance areas of Spoorkpark, visitor tents and its famous tourist attraction, The Kempentoren. Visitors saw Roland DG’s large format printing in action in the brand’s dedicated tent on-site, using its latest TrueVIS MG-300 UV solution, alongside receiving free printed merchandise on each day of the festival.

René van der Weijde, Head of Sales Benelux at Roland DG states: “We’re delighted with the successful launch of TrueVIS colour at this year’s Redhead Days Festival, particularly in showcasing beautiful shades of red and orange. It was fantastic to see hard work pay off for a special cause and to witness so many redheads celebrate their individuality together!”

Madelon Thijs, Marketing Manager at DIMIX commented: “It was such a privilege to partner with Roland DG at this year’s festival in Tilburg. The team thoroughly enjoyed joining forces with local suppliers, as we worked together to showcase the beauty of red hair shades through the TrueVIS print and cut range.”

Bart Rouwenhorst, Founder of the Redhead Days Festival said: “As predicted, this year’s Redhead Days Festival was a phenomenal event for everyone involved! It was a joy to come alongside Roland DG, lead sponsors of the event, and witness the power of using technology for good. Redheads came from all around the world, many of which found their unique shade of red for the first time, through Roland’s ‘50 Shades of Ginger’ campaign. It was a pleasure to see that the event was enjoyed by all, especially the redheads at the centre of this amazing initiative!”

In an unprecedented move to showcase its TrueVIS colour technology, Roland DG launched a “Redhead Revolution'' earlier this year on World Redhead Day (26th May 2023), via its ‘50 Shades of Ginger’ campaign. No one understands the nuance of red and orange shades better than redheads and the term 'ginger’ simply isn't broad enough to capture the diversity of red hair, which was why the ‘50 Shades of Ginger’ campaign was born, helping redheads to finally find their perfect shade.

Building on the innovative technology of the NOVAFOIL 106, BOBST launches a new version of the hot foil stamper, dedicated to the application of holograms. Featuring a completely redesigned hologram application system, the NOVAFOIL 106 H gives converters maximum flexibility and efficiency for hot stamping transfer with holograms.

Only two years ago, the NOVAFOIL 106 was introduced. It was the first inline hot film stamping machine from BOBST offering an advanced cross-foiling option, increasing its efficiency and versatility. It also offered a new level of embellishment quality with its redesigned platen section - ensuring longer dwell time, stable platen temperature and higher pressure. Reliability, coupled with cost-efficient foil use and great flexibility, is also the basis for the new version of this compact and productive machine.

Being conscious of the particular needs of hologram application, BOBST wanted to provide an option for converters who specialise in this area of hot transfer. The result is a new system with individual hologram modules, which can be mounted on rails on the NOVAFOIL 106. With up to 2 rails and 5 modules each, 10 hologram reels of maximum 100 mm width can now convert jobs which previously required two runs, in one single pass. To guarantee the zero-fault quality customers expect, the NOVAFOIL 106 H has been equipped with a register for every reel to ensure perfect application precision. The film advance is controlled via an electronic system and advance shafts with pressure rollers ensure perfect film tension. The modules can be positioned rapidly, and the hologram reels can be introduced within seconds. What is more, the modules can be directly plugged into one of two connecting boxes on each side of the machine. This “plug and play” system ensures quick and hassle-free changeovers.

To cut down setup times even further, BOBST has also introduced the Digital Makeready Tool (DMT). Inspired by the Digital Inspection Table (DIT) quality control solution, the pdf of any embellishment job can be sent to the DMT, where the digital layout is projected directly onto the honeycomb chase. This projection indicates precisely where the dies have to be positioned, eliminating lengthy setup checks. The DMT shortens setups and increases accuracy to ensure impeccable stamping register quality, which in turn reduces the number of waste sheets.

Everything has been considered to make sure owners of a NOVAFOIL 106 H can expect flexible use, short setups, and maximum precision for premium brand protection with hologram application. At the same time, BOBST pushes digital and connected production efficiency by continually integrating new innovations which path the way to the transformation of the packaging world.

To find out more about BOBST and its products designed for the folding carton sector, please visit www.Bobst.com

Canon’s wide format production printing technologies have again been recognized in the annual PRINTING United Alliance Pinnacle Awards, with six Pinnacle Product Awards and one Pinnacle Technology Award. The Colorado M-series was the winner in the Roll-to-Roll/Hybrid/Flatbed new technology category, while the Arizona 135 GT, 1380 GTF, 1380 XTF, 2380 GTF and 2380 XTF made a clean sweep by winning each of their five respective UV/Latex Flatbed categories. Additionally, Canon also won the Pinnacle Technology Award for the recently launched Canon UVgel White Ink.

Open to all PRINTING United Alliance supplier members, the Pinnacle Product Award competition evaluates products that are commercially available in 2023. This year, over 160 entries across 58 categories, covering analogue, digital, output and non-output technologies, were judged by a highly qualified panel of experts from the printing industry. 

Colorado M-series and UVgel ink impresses Pinnacle Awards judges

In the product categories, the Colorado M-series was selected for the Roll-to-Roll/Hybrid/Flatbed New Technology Award and the Canon UVgel White Ink won the Pinnacle Technology Award. 

Canon launched the Colorado M-series, a modular roll-to-roll printer with two-speed configurations and UVgel white ink option, in March 2023. Based on a single platform that can be configured to customers’ needs, the printer offers easy in-field upgrades, giving users the option to enhance their printer in line with their changing requirements. Customers can also benefit from the unique performance advantages of UVgel and print a wider spectrum of applications with the introduction of white UVgel ink. UVgel’s unique formulation produces dense, opaque white images in fewer printing passes and with fewer production issues and nozzle-cleaning and maintenance requirements often associated with white ink. This all results in smooth, error-free prints with minimal waste and optimal productivity.  

Arizona wins five Pinnacle Product awards

This year the Arizona family won all five of the UV/Latex Flatbed categories entered.

• Arizona 135 GT – UV/Latex Flatbed (under $100K)
• Arizona 1380 GTF – UV/Latex Flatbed ($100K - $200K)
• Arizona 1380 XTF – UV/Latex Flatbed + White ($100K - $200K)
• Arizona 2380 GTF – UV/Latex Flatbed ($200K - $500K)
• Arizona 2380 XTF – UV/Latex Flatbed + White ($200K - $500K)

 

In the past three years, Canon has announced multiple developments across the Arizona portfolio, including innovations in the Arizona 2300 series in 2020, the launch of the Arizona 135 in 2021 and, more recently, the introduction of FLOW technology to the Arizona 1300 series in 2023. 

 

Designed for low maintenance, the Arizona family has automation enhancements that provide users with the capability to support industrial productivity standards and improve uptime. The latest Arizona models feature award-winning, third-generation VariaDot printing technology, delivering high quality, greyscale image reproduction. And with FLOW technology, a Canon innovation that combines a zoneless, multi-origin flatbed with mirrored, pneumatic registration pins, it is quicker and easier to change between boards of any size or shape.

 

Dirk Brouns, Vice President Large Format Graphics at Canon Production Printing, says “We’re thrilled to have once again been honored with multiple Pinnacle Product Awards by the PRINTING United Alliance, and it’s very rewarding to be acknowledged across a diverse range of output technology categories. The wide format graphics market is driven by innovation and Canon’s consistently high ranking in the objective quality criteria for these awards is a testament to our commitment to research and development. We’re confident that our Colorado and Arizona product lines will continue to enable users to boost profits, expand their application possibilities and open up new market opportunities.” 

Dawn Nye, Program Manager for Pinnacle Awards, PRINTING United Alliance, comments: “The Pinnacle Technology Award competition represents the entry that is truly innovative and most likely to have a significant impact among commercial hardware, software, consumables, and industrial and screen equipment. One of the things I like best about our competition is that it is juried, and judges base their decisions on objective criteria. This year, the competition was fierce and, with outstanding entries like the Colorado and Arizona, the judges had their work cut out for them.”

 

To find out more about the Colorado M-series, visit: https://cpp.canon/products/colorado-m-series/

 

To find out more about the Arizona family, visit: https://cpp.canon/products/arizona-series/

Epson and its subsidiary company Epson X Investment Corporation (EXI) have invested in startup company AI Silk Corporation through a joint fund, the EP-GB Investment Limited Partnership. Sendai-based AI Silk, a startup that spun out of Tohoku University, develops and manufactures a high-performance conductive textile called LEAD SKIN®.

Conductive textiles have been used as materials for automotive parts and wearable devices in applications such as biological measurement and EMS1. However, there have been a number of issues. Sensing accuracy can be affected by conductive resistance. The feel and changes in properties (rust) can affect comfort and safety. There have also been issues in terms of manufacturing cost and durability.

LEAD SKIN®, a high-performance conductive textile developed and manufactured by AI Silk, solves these issues.

AI Silk has succeeded in making a variety of materials conductive, including silk, polyester, nonwoven fabrics and suede. This was achieved by dramatically improving the manufacturing process by adopting a proprietary conductive polymer coating technology based on technology invented at Tohoku University. This technology improves sensing accuracy by reducing conductive resistance. It also improves the feel, texture, comfort, and durability of the textile while also reducing manufacturing costs.

AI Silk intends to use this third-party allotment of shares to expand volume production of LEAD SKIN®. The company plans to expand beyond Japan and to sell LEAD SILK® as a material to meet the growing global demand for automotive parts and wearable devices such as EMS products. It is also considering expanding into the medical field.

Epson aims to give people lifestyle choices and enable them to live enriched lifestyles founded on physical and mental well-being. Epson decided to invest in AI Silk because it sees LEAD SKIN® as an interface technology for converting biological data captured through daily life into new value.

Going forward, Epson will help to achieve a sustainable society by creating a variety of partnerships and synergies based on its proprietary technologies, products, and services.

 

1 EMS: Electrical muscle stimulation. The elicitation of muscle contractions using small electric impulses in the expectation of the same type of effect as strength training.

* LEAD SKIN is a trademark or registered trademark of AI Silk Corporation.

* AI Silk is a registered trademark of AI Silk corporation.

 

Follow Epson on social media:LinkedIn: @Epson-AustraliaFacebook: @EpsonAustraliaFacebook: @Epson New ZealandTwitter: @EpsonAustYouTube: @EpsonAustraliaInstagram: @EpsonAust

Mimaki Europe has announced the development of a new direct-to-film (DTF) printer, the TxF300-75. The new system incorporates the stability and functionality of Mimaki’s first DTF printer, the TxF150-75, while delivering new levels of productivity with print speeds that are three times higher.

Mimaki’s intention, when entering the DTF market earlier this year, was to offer customers a stable, efficient DTF platform that incorporates Mimaki’s renowned quality standards. In line with the original machine, the new TxF300-75 meets these objectives, whilst catering to a diverse set of printing demands, including larger companies requiring higher volumes of high-quality output.

“We believe in giving customers choice and anticipating their needs, which is why we are expanding our DTF printer line-up hot on the heels of the inaugural system.” explains Arjen Evertse, General Sales Manager, Mimaki Europe. “The TxF300-75 has been designed to offer even greater productivity. The innovative 80cm width introduced with our first DTF printer remains a feature of this new system, enabling customers to print more efficiently.”

The reliability of the Mimaki DTF printer series is achieved through the built-in ink circulation system that prevents white ink clogging, and a degassed ink pack, lowering the risk of poor ink jetting. The new printer also includes core Mimaki features, including NCU (Nozzle Check Unit) and NRS (Nozzle Recovery System) for stable, uninterrupted print production. The DTF process also enables customers to print on a wider range of fabric such as cotton, mixed fabric, polyester, and dark coloured fabrics.

In line with Mimaki’s sustainability goals, the TxF300-75 utilises Mimaki’s PHT50 pigment inks which are ECO-PASSPORT certified - validating their lower environmental impact and meeting the requirements for OEKO-TEX certification.

Distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services, the company’s sales director, Andrew Gregory, welcomes the addition to the line-up. “Since its launch, the TxF150-75 has been an overwhelming success, receiving a very positive response from the market. It’s exciting to be able to announce the higher production machine joining the range, and we look forward to seeing it later in the year.”

In a remarkable entrance into the industry and public showcase at (MICE) Melbourne International Coffee Expo’s 10th year running, Trimatt Systems proudly presented their cutting-edge color digital packaging printing systems. Highlighting the event's finale, the Trimatt ColourStar AQ V emerged triumphant as the recipient of the coveted Product Innovation Award for coffee accessories.

The winning product, Trimatt’s ColourStar AQ V, redefines sustainable printing for paper and cardboard packaging, placing the profit in food and drink manufacturers hands by providing a versatile and economic solution for eco-friendly packaging needs. Its capabilities span various applications, from coffee bags to packing boxes, to take-away food packaging. 

Expressing his elation, Director Matt Johnson shared his thoughts on the win: "Securing this award and gaining industry-wide recognition is an exhilarating feat," exclaimed Trimatt CEO Matt Johnson. "Our victory can be attributed to the value people place on innovation, coupled with the relatability of supporting a local equipment manufacturer. As pioneers in the engineering domain, we spot opportunities, invest considerable effort, channel resources into research and development, and subject our equipment to rigorous testing. It's an intensive undertaking by the entire team, and the results are evidently remarkable." 

Speaking to Trimatt's successful presence at the exhibition, Mel McFarlane, Marketing Coordinator, remarked, "Participation in the event has been an overwhelming triumph for Trimatt, with substantial market interest. This recognition stands as a testament to the team's alignment with the right course of action." 

About Trimatt Systems: 

Trimatt Systems is an award-winning automation machinery engineer and manufacturer dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions for the packaging industry. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability, Trimatt Systems has established itself as a trusted partner for packaging companies worldwide. 

Ball & Doggett are thrilled to announce the grand winner of its highly anticipated competition, along with the names of nine lucky recipients of the weekly prize draws. The competition, which captured the imagination of participants across the nation, concluded on a high note, delivering excitement and joy to numerous individuals. 

Yupo is a ground-breaking synthetic paper that combines the characteristics of traditional paper with the durability and water-resistance of polypropylene. Yupo offers unparalleled durability, tear-resistance, and water-resistance, making it an exceptional choice for various applications. Its smooth, non-porous surface allows for vibrant and precise printing. Yupo is the perfect solution for POS, packaging, and labelling.

The Major Prize Winner, B&S Printing from Western Australia, has reason to celebrate as they have emerged victorious in Ball & Doggett’s Yupo competition. They have earned them the top honour, and they will be rewarded with a trip for two to Japan, including return economy airfares, 5 nights’ accommodation, and general admission tickets to the Japanese Grand Prix 2023. Ball & Doggett congratulates Steve Dennis on this exceptional achievement and thank the company for their participation. “Winning the major prize from Ball & Doggett was completely unexpected and welcomed. I'm truly grateful for this incredible opportunity. I'm ecstatic to have the chance to explore the beauty of Japan and experience the Grand Prix” said winner Steve Dennis, B&S Printing. 

In addition to the major prize, Ball & Doggett is pleased to recognise the following companies as winners of the weekly prize draws:

Winner week 1: Nichol’s Printing, QLD Winner week 2: EPM Print Group, QLD Winner week 3: Mildura Printing Services, VIC Winner week 4: Delta Print, WA Winner week 5: Styleprint, VIC Winner week 6: Clark Murphy Print, NSW Winner week 7: Southern Impact Digital, VIC Winner week 8: Payne Print & Sign, QLD Winner week 9: Sydney Print Media, NSW 

Each of the weekly prize draw recipients will receive $200 VISA Gift voucher, adding an extra layer of excitement to their participation in the competition.

"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to B&S Printing for winning the major prize, and we're equally delighted to celebrate the winners of our weekly prize draws. This competition was a tremendous success, and we're truly grateful to everyone who took part," said Shinsuke Mizoguchi, National Manager – Synthetic from Ball & Doggett. "The overwhelming response reflects the enthusiasm and support of our valued customers, and we look forward to continuing to provide exceptional experiences in the future."

Ball & Doggett expresses its gratitude to all customers for making this competition a memorable event. The company remains committed to delivering innovative products and engaging experiences to its customers.

For more information about Yupo products available through Ball & Doggett click here  

FESPA Australia Announced that it launched the FESPA Australia Training Fund, whose funds are mandated by their Constitution for use in training and development programs within the speciality printing industry.

 

In a presentation at a FESPA Australia event at Cactus Imaging, Life members and trustees of The FESPA Training Fund presented the fund with $94,000 of seed funding.

 

In the first presentation, Life Members Trevor Cunningham and Bill Porteous* and Paul Smith, Trustee, presented the proceeds of the Glen Crerar scholarship fund. The scholarship was established in 1990 in memory of past President Glen Crerar, who passed in office. Life member Trevor Cunningham spoke of Glen Crerar and the fund's values and his wish that these funds will continue to offer opportunities to young people well into the future.

 

In the second presentation, Life Member Bill Porteous presented the proceeds of a cheque for $60,000, representing the NSW region's funds up until its amalgamation with the Federal body in 2017.  

 

Nigel Davies, President, says " FESPA Australia is one of the oldest printing associations, and these funds were raised by generations of hardworking volunteers and generous sponsors of the screen printing industry. We are honoured to take the baton and work hard to apply and preserve these funds. By protecting those funds in our Constitution, we are ensuring that from now into the future, our Association will have a laser-sharp focus on the training needs of our industry.”

 

Davies says “There is much to do; the work of other FESPA associations inspires us, particularly FESPA UK's Next Generation fund, which promotes networking among young people and leverages social media to connect young people at scale. Associations must coordinate our approaches and funding to ensure a balanced approach to our industry's needs.”

 

FESPA Australia launched its 2023 FESPA Future Leaders program earlier this month, and interested applicants can apply for the program here.  https://fespaaustralia.org.au/leadership/

 

*Trevor Cunningham is a Life Member and Past President of SGIAA (now FESPA Australia) and is the founder of Allprint Graphics 63 years ago. Bill Porteous is also a Life Member and past Treasurer of SGIAA and is the founder of JW Agencies.

The country’s best Sign & Graphics apprentices travelled to Melbourne to compete in the WorldSkills Australia National Championships at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, sponsored by supplier association, Visual Connections.

The six apprentices, who hailed from Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, performed a range of tasks from vehicle wrapping to channel letter fabrication over three days of competition from 17 – 19 August, impressing judges with their skill and enthusiasm.

Medals were presented on Sunday 20 August at the Plenary at the Melbourne Convention Centre in a great night of celebration emceed by 'Last Man Standing' Steven Bradbury OAM & entertained by Djirri Djirri dance group and the Australian Girls Choir.

Caitlin Wilson from Prowraps & Graphics in Penrith took out top honours in the Sign & Graphics category with a Gold Medal. Elizabeth Gasparini from RMG Signs in Geelong was presented with Silver, and Lauren Green from Impression Signs & Designs in Rosebud was awarded the Bronze. They narrowly beat other finalists Shian van Montfoort and Tom Minchew from Sydney, and Hannah Thompson-Taylor from Perth.

The competition was co-located with the Victorian Careers Expo, with the Visual Connections / ASGA education initiative once again introducing young people to the sign, print and graphics industry. ‘Try a Skill’ activities were led by TAFE teachers, industry experts, supported by careers advisors from Australian Schools Industry Partnership (AusSIP) providing information on careers and training. A steady stream of students took part in the interactive display, with many registering their interest in finding out more.

The WorldSkills Australia National Championships ran from 17-19 August. It is the culmination of the WorldSkills Australia 2023 program which champions and promotes excellence in more than 50 trades and skills, putting entrants’ knowledge, practical skills and employability to the test. The competition starts at grass roots level in 34 regions around Australia, with winners progressing to State finals and then competing at the National level. Selected winners from these National Finals will progress to the international finals, travelling with the team of ‘Skillaroos’ to Lyon in France in 2024. 

Operate to Your Optimum in 2024 with Currie Group

A new year is always a great time to review your business plans, but no matter what time of year it is, having a comprehensive and effective preventative maintenance schedule for your mission-critical equipment is vital to ensure you are always operating to your optimum.

With technology evolving rapidly, and diversification the key for today’s savvy print service provider, it’s perhaps no wonder that new investments are often the focus of forward planning. Looking after the systems and equipment you already have in your business, however, is equally – if not more – important to your productivity, efficiency and profitability.

Marcus Robinson, Director – Operations for Currie Group, oversees what is arguably the most extensive service and technical support operation in the industry, looking after an extensive portfolio of products that cover almost every application from general commercial print, to labels and packaging, sign & display, print finishing, 3D printing and more.

A veteran of the industry, he has seen firsthand just how important preventative maintenance can be in an industry where productivity means profitability.

“We work in a very technologically advanced space, but no matter how clever or sophisticated your technology may be, if your mission-critical equipment grinds to a halt, your bottom line will quickly take a big hit,” he says. 

It’s a situation the group’s experienced team of technicians see all too often – an SOS from a client in the middle of a vitally important print run, let down by technology at the critical moment. Often, Marcus says, it’s because the pressure of day-to-day operations has led to important preventative maintenance being overlooked. 

“We all get busy, and when the jobs are queued up, shutting down a machine for maintenance is the last thing you want to do,” he acknowledges. “But taking a proactive, rather than reactive, approach can drastically reduce your risk of unplanned downtime and also significantly improve the performance of your equipment – which all leads to higher efficiency, better productivity and, ultimately, a more profitable operation.”

A planned approach provides businesses with an all-important health check on each piece of kit to identify any current issues and flag potential problems before they arise. It then allows business owners to lock in a maintenance program that suits their particular workload and operational objectives.

The first step, Marcus says, is to sit down with Currie Group to discuss your requirements.

“Service agreements used to be a ‘one size fits all’ kind of thing, but today they are incredibly flexible to cater for all types of businesses, from those who operate 24/7 and put through millions of impressions a month, to those who run 9-5 weekdays at much lower volumes. It’s about working out the best plan for each individual situation.” 

For many businesses, the solution will be the Currie Care Service Agreement – a plan which looks much like a traditional maintenance or service agreement, albeit one which is more tailored to individual business needs.

“This is where a business can sign up for Currie Care and know that their regular equipment health checks, preventative maintenance, parts and labour, and the training they need, are completely covered by their agreement,” Marcus explains.

For others, a more nuanced approach is preferred. This usually starts with Currie Group experts conducting Health Checks across the company’s key equipment to establish a baseline and identify any areas which deviate from manufacturer’s standard. 

A written technical report, detailing the identified issues and recommended preventative maintenance, provides a roadmap for devising a customised maintenance schedule planned around the company’s individual workload, shifts and priorities…and ensures nothing is missed.

The resulting program typically covers a full year, and is delivered by Currie Group’s team of factory-trained technicians – many of whom have been with the company for years. They are regularly sent for the latest and most advanced training with Currie Group’s OEM partners to ensure they are right up to date with new platforms as well as existing technologies, and bring their knowledge and skills back to their colleagues via the company’s internal ‘train the trainer’ style program.

Their expertise and experience are supported by the latest resources including advanced analytics, remote diagnostics delivered in partnership with Currie Group’s principals, and innovations like virtual reality glasses which allow real-time input from the equipment manufacturers during service and maintenance procedures. The team is also investigating innovative new technologies like AI-driven predictive modelling, which they expect to further enhance service programs in years to come.

Maintaining this high level of service requires ongoing commitment and investment, Marcus explains, but it something Currie Group has always prioritised.

“When you invest in new equipment, it’s important to know that investment is backed by the support you need to maximise its potential. Our ongoing commitment to service and support means our customers can have that confidence. In many cases, Currie Group technicians become trusted advisors, with relationships stretching back years. It’s a real partnership.

“Now, we just want to make sure that every business takes advantage of the support available by putting in place the preventative measures they need to maximise their profitability in 2024 and beyond.”

The long-standing partnership between leading finishing equipment manufacturer, A B Graphic International (ABG) and HP Indigo, has resulted in the addition of non-stop winding technology for the V12 digital press - HP Indigo’s flagship narrow-web label press. The collaboration provides a significant enhancement in the automation capabilities offered by the V12.

 

The newly introduced non-stop unwind and rewinding system from ABG seamlessly integrates into the V12 production line as a single platform. It has been designed with state-of-the-art guarding measures, ensuring operator safety, ease, and comfort during operation. With the capacity to reach speeds of up to 120 meters per minute, it stands out in terms of performance. One of its key features is its ability to deliver the best tension control available in the market, making it highly reliable for various applications.

 

Non-stop technology delivers several key advantages: first and foremost, it significantly boosts the productivity of both printing presses and converting lines, enabling more efficient and streamlined workflows; additionally, the system contributes to an improvement in product quality, ensuring consistent and precise winding processes. And as a result of better tension control through its servo technology, it helps reduce material waste leading to cost savings and a more sustainable impact,

 

The success of the non-stop/V12 combination is substantiated by three notable customer purchases of the full line, All4Labels, Brooke and Whittle and ESHUIS, all 3 have invested in this advanced technology to enhance their printing and converting operations, demonstrating the value and impact of this collaborative solution in the industry.

 

Matt Burton, ABG's Global Sales Director, said: "Key to ABG’s leadership in the print finishing market is our ability to create solutions for the market as the market evolves. With the addition of ABG’s  non-stop winding technology, label printers will be able to maximise the potential of the V12 press”’

 

A HP Indigo V12 Digital Press and ABG’s non-stop winding technology will be demonstrated on the HP Indigo, stand P100, at the forthcoming Labelexpo Europe, held on 11-14 September in Brussels. 

 

ABG is exhibiting on stand 6A37, where it will showcase 13 of its cutting-edge finishing machines. 

Currie Group are the local distributors and experts for ABG equipment solutions. 

Ball & Doggett trading as Conect Enterprises is excited to announce a strategic and exclusive partnership with leading global Heat Transfer Vinyl manufacturer POLI-TAPE. 

Conect Enterprises are a leading supplier to the Sign, Display and Digital market for over 30 years and since 2010 been a market leader in the supply of Heat Transfer Films to the Signage and Craft market. 

Recently acquired by Ball & Doggett, Australia’s largest supplier of printable materials in September 2022, Conect are looking to further expand their range of products and services to support their clients’ growing needs.

Rob Brussolo General Manager Ball & Doggett - Sign, Display & Digital “The POLI-TAPE partnership is an exciting next step in our growth plans in the signage and craft market providing all existing Conect and Ball & Doggett customers access to a broader range of innovative and market leading heat transfer films. In addition, we will continue to support the market with local technical expertise and state-based stock holdings. We will be launching the new POLI-FLEX range by POLI-TAPE on the 13th November. In the interim we have sufficient stocks of Siser Heat Transfer Vinyl to ensure there will be no interruption to supply. More information will be provided over the coming weeks”

POLI-TAPE is an innovative family run business and is a global market leader in the manufacturing of high quality Textile Transfer Films, Digital Printing Media, Plotter and Laminating films as well as Adhesive Tapes for advertising and display lettering. Their films are used for enhancing artwork lettering on sport and casual clothes as well as advertisements on windows, cars and various other advertising spaces. With nearly 400 employees worldwide, they supply their customers high quality products in more than 90 countries all over the world.

Managing Director of POLI-TAPE Group Mark Wehrmann – “We are thrilled to partner with B&D to jointly bring the offering within the signage, retail and craft market to the next level in Australia. With our highest product quality standards as well as new innovative value adds, paired with B&D local expertise the foundation is set to exceed customers’ expectations.”

Luke Wilkinson Ball & Doggett CEO  “We are excited to announce this partnership with such an innovative and reputable company in POLI-TAPE who share our commitment to the Signage, Craft and Retail market in Australia”. 

For further information regarding this announcement please contact your local Conect representative.

Epson and its subsidiary Epson X Investment Corporation (EXI) have made an additional investment in GITAI, a startup company that develops general-purpose space robots.

GITAI is a startup that envisions providing safe and affordable labour in space. Their goal is to develop and sell versatile space robots that will serve as a workforce for tasks both inside and outside space stations, in Earth's orbit, as well as on the Moon and Mars. Additionally, they aim to provide services in space.

With the acceleration of space development, including lunar resource development, Mars exploration, and the commercialisation of the International Space Station (ISS), a rapid increase in various types of work within space is anticipated, such as the construction of new space stations, lunar bases, and Mars bases. This work is potentially dangerous and is currently being performed by astronauts, who must be trained and transported at tremendous expense.

GITAI is developing general-purpose robots that can significantly reduce the risk and burden on astronauts while also dramatically reducing the overall cost of transportation and training associated with space labour. By doing so, GITAI aims to make space exploration and development both safe and affordable. Since 2021, they have been steadily building a strong track record by developing lunar work robots and extravehicular robots, as well as by successfully completing on-board experiments using demonstration models on the ISS.

As outlined in the Epson 25 Renewed corporate vision, Epson aims to drive manufacturing innovation by co-creating flexible, high-throughput production systems that reduce environmental impacts. GITAI's space robot technology has potential applications in Epson's robotics business and has proven to be competitive in the expanding space business market.

The company continues to forge growth with its strong technical and organisation capabilities. Recognising its impressive track record and the significant technological advancements it has achieved, Epson decided to follow up its initial investment in 2021 with this additional investment.

Going forward, Epson will help to achieve a sustainable society by creating a variety of partnerships and synergies based on its proprietary technologies, products, and services.

 

Follow Epson on social media:

LinkedIn: @Epson-Australia

Facebook: @EpsonAustralia

Facebook: @Epson New Zealand

Twitter: @EpsonAust

YouTube: @EpsonAustralia

Instagram: @EpsonAust

Konica Minolta Australia has announced the introduction of the AccurioShine 3600, its newest inkjet spot UV coater that incorporates innovative varnish technology by MGI, to the Australian market.  

 

The AccurioShine 3600 enables digital spot UV varnishing and digital hot foiling in a compact solution that forgoes the need for screens, plates, or dyes. The fully digital solution features industry-leading artificial intelligence (AI) registration technology and an eco-friendly LED curing system.  

 

Andrew Cocker, general manager, production and industrial print, Konica Minolta Australia, said, “The AccurioShine 3600 is a testament towards Konica Minolta’s 2023 commitment for enhancing the local production print and industrial print industries. As digital printing becomes more prominent in the industry, more emphasis is being placed on digitalising pre-press and post-press processes, as well as on-demand, short-run printing. The AccurioShine 3600 fulfils this need and is the ideal, cost-effective solution for printers to provide impactful, premium, short-run embellishments on day-to-day print jobs, adding value for their customers while differentiating themselves in the market.”  

 

With its ground-breaking technology and compact size, the new AccurioShine 3600 solution lets printers provide 2D and 3D gloss and digital hot foiling effects at a reasonable cost and without the complicated steps of conventional systems. It can be used from the prototyping stage to full production printing.  

 

The AccurioShine 3600 supports a large range of media sheet sizes up to a maximum of 750mm and is equipped to enhance printouts such as name cards, greeting cards, photobook covers, and packaging on demand. It also supports Variable Data Printing (VDP) to add more impact to tickets, personalised packages and labels, invitations, and one-to-one marketing collateral, among other high visual print products. The barcode scanner on the AccurioShine 3600 can read barcodes from a pre-printed sheet and instantly select the corresponding TIFF file already stored on the workstation. Used in combination with the VDP barcode scanner with automatic PDF file converter, the workflow is fast-tracked by transforming files from PDF to the output tray in minutes.

 

Andrew Cocker said, “The value the AccurioShine 3600 provides Australian printers with a range of high impact finishing effects to offer customers while delivering high-quality outputs. Printers can use this new solution to enhance their business competitiveness and meet the needs and demands of today’s printing environment.”  

For more information visit: konicaminolta.com.au/home  

Roland DG Australia has opened the doors to its new offices and Creative Centre in Nunawading, Melbourne.

The new Creative Centre contains a suite of Roland DG and DGSHAPE products, including the recently launched TrueVIS models and the latest DWX dental mills.

Opening the centre was Chi Hun (Charles) Seo, President and CEO of Korea, China, and Oceania, Shane Adams, Roland DG Sales Manager, Greg Stone, Roland DG Product and Marketing Manager, as well as local dealers and guests. 

Charles noted the need for the new offices and Creative Centre, and how well Roland DG had been doing in Australia, especially the release of the TrueVIS AP 640 large format resin/latex printer. 

Although not in person, Roland DG Managing Director John Wall commented, "We are excited to open the new Offices and Creative Centre in Nunawading as we look to further enhance our industry-leading customer service, while also providing inspiration and encouraging creativity in the local Victorian market.

"The facility is designed to better serve the local market of dealers and customers and accommodates staff in Service, Sales, Product Support and Training. In addition, the Creative Centre is an invaluable resource for customers and partners to help grow their businesses and explore new opportunities and solutions.

The interior of the Centre is styled from top to bottom with brightly coloured, vibrant prints encompassing the walls and doors, as well as sample displays and Roland DG’s marketing leading technology. 

“We’d like to invite all industry professionals, dealers, industry partners and customers to visit the new space to see the latest technology, attend product demonstrations and view a wide range of Roland DG samples and applications,” said Greg Stone. 

 Visit the following link to schedule an appointment: www.rolanddg.com.au/book-a-demo

New toners with up to 60% recycled materials will be introduced at Labelexpo Europe

Lier, Belgium – Xeikon will present the third generation of its market-leading CHEETAH printing technology (CHEETAH 3.0) at Labelexpo Europe this coming September. While Xeikon dry toner technology is already the most food-safe solution on the market, new legislation and brand owner expectations are further advancing demands for more sustainable solutions. In response, Xeikon has developed revolutionary new toners without abandoning the strong values of its existing technology, introducing a higher level of sustainability as a direct response to what is undoubtedly the biggest concern for brand owners and end consumers in today’s market. The development of new ECO toners is also a key component of Xeikon’s sustainability goals, which aim to reduce the company’s carbon footprint by 40% in the coming years.

The breakthrough advancements achieved with the introduction of new Xeikon ECO toners align themselves along two main axes: sustainability and food safety.

Sustainability – with up to 60% sustainable components chemically derived from high-grade transparent recycled PET bottles and other reclaimed carbon materials, converters will see a number of immediate benefits from transitioning to ECO toners:

The carbon footprint of Xeikon print technology is reduced by more than 10% which also contributes to converters’ own sustainability goals.

Encourages the use of recycled materials by avoiding (higher) taxation on packaging made from oil-based virgin plastic.

ECO toners, like other Xeikon toners, are produced using 100% green electricity, minimising CO2 emissions.

ECO toners are de-inkable from both paper (Ingede reference) and foil (CADEL reference).

No volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted into the environment during the production of toner nor during the actual printing process.

Food safety – by carefully selecting the raw materials and re-engineering the chemical content, ECO toners are completely free from fluorine (both inorganic and PFAS) and 100% vegan, in addition to the established advantages of the previous generation of toners, which are free from BPA, mineral oil, and photo initiators. This means that ECO toners are suitable for application with indirect food contact with only a paper barrier, and for FDA direct food contact with dry food. Additionally, ECO toners comply with the European Toy Safety Directive, the Nestlé Guidance Note on Packaging Inks, and the Swiss and German Printing Ink Ordinances.

All these characteristics are crucial for complying with existing and future regulations and for protecting the environment. Furthermore, they address consumers’ growing concerns about well-being, health, and animal welfare, making them a futureproof solution for today’s investment in environmentally conscious packaging production.

“Xeikon toners, which already enable exceptional print quality and high reliability, have now been extended with a broader food-safety application range. With their eco-friendly composition, ECO toners make a meaningful contribution to Xeikon’s unwavering commitment to deliver relevant solutions to the label market addressing today’s and tomorrow’s challenges,” comments Filip Weymans, Xeikon Vice President of Marketing. “When making an investment in printing equipment converters seek assurance that their investment

is not only suited to their current needs but also fit to address upcoming demands; an aspect that Xeikon will further enable by also making ECO toner available for existing customers operating Xeikon CX300 and CX500 presses in the coming year.”

He further remarks, “We are also proud to say that Xeikon ECO toners will not compel converters to increase their prices, unlike comparable sustainable solutions. In fact, converters will have the opportunity to upgrade their production to a much higher level of sustainability without increasing their TCOP (total cost of print). This effectively translates to a cost reduction in real terms and supports them in facing the current severe price pressures.”

To provide further evidence of its green credentials, Xeikon has also launched a Sustainability Scorecard for every digital press in the portfolio. The new scorecard provides a fact-based tool for printers to demonstrate the direct environmental impact of their Xeikon machine, expressed as grams of CO2 per square meter, rated in three categories (energy, waste, and ink/toner mass) on a scale from A to G. It goes into a high level of detail to also include substance indicators, legislative compliance, and all outputs for a full sustainability review. The scorecard is not designed uniquely for Xeikon equipment but can be used by other vendors as well. More info on the Sustainability Scorecard can be found at https://xeikon.com/en/lps/sustainability-scorecard.

CHEETAH 3.0: more than just a toner

While ECO toner is the cornerstone of CHEETAH 3.0, a range of next-generation innovations continue the momentum of Xeikon’s CHEETAH series digital presses to mark another significant step towards fully sustainable production of labels and packaging. In addition to new ECO toners and the sustainability scorecard, they include:

metallic toners enabling and supporting creativity for label converters and designers to tap into higher valued applications such as wine & spirits, cosmetics, or gourmet food,

a digital frontend with a more intuitive user interface making it easier for operators to run the press, freeing up time for other tasks,

an optional Quality Monitoring Module (QMM) that reduces waste related to press performance monitoring and correction significantly (this is achieved with an advanced automatic registration system and a new inline spectrometer that monitor and adjust (a) density, (b) tone curve, and (c) creating, monitoring and adjusting the color profile when used in combination with Xeikon color services, making performance more reliable and resulting in a reduced TCOP, and allowing the use of lower grade substrates which before could have led to inconsistent performance caused by incorrect data capturing), and

cloud-connected, advanced machine-machine interface and man-machine interface allowing for the highest level of automation when requested by the converter.

CHEETAH 3.0 will increase OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) in all three key aspects: availability, performance, and quality.

Xeikon CHEETAH 3.0 will be launched at Labelexpo Europe 2023, where visitors will be able to see the new ECO toners in action printing live. Full commercial availability is scheduled for early 2024, when current Xeikon CX300 and Xeikon CX500 users will be able to upgrade their presses.

“CHEETAH 3.0 addresses every detail of the Xeikon digital toner presses, from performance, availability, and quality to sustainability and reliability, so we can offer maximum value to our customers and help them protect their investment,” comments Frank Jacobs, Market Intel & Senior Product Manager. “These new developments have been made with a clear focus on the needs of Xeikon users who are active in labels and packaging, which are incredibly demanding markets with a multitude of factors affecting profitability.”

In addition to the presentations on booth C29 in Hall 5, Xeikon can also be found at the Automation Arena in Hall 11 and as part of the new Sustainability Trail and the Flex Pack Trail, further highlighting the multitude of benefits delivered by the company’s new innovations.

Canon Production Printing and Computaleta have joined forces in a new partnership agreement aimed at expanding the reach of the award-winning Colorado M-series and Arizona  wide format printers within the New Zealand market.

For Computaleta, a family-owned sign and graphics distributor business with a long-standing presence in the print industry, this collaboration represents an opportunity to expand its offerings and cater to the growing demands of its customers. By incorporating Canon's advanced roll to roll and flatbed printers into their portfolio, Computaleta can elevate its position as a provider of wide format graphics technologies  throughout New Zealand.

Craig Nethercott, Managing Director, Canon Production Printing Oceania, says: 

“We are delighted to be welcoming Computaleta onboard as a key partner within the New Zealand market. Both the Arizona flatbed series and the Colorado M-series roll-to-roll printer incorporating UVgel technology are well established globally as market-defining solutions that can unlock a broad 

range of creative and profitable application opportunities for customers. With a knowledgeable and experienced partner like Computaleta, we can realise our ambition to help more New Zealand printers and graphics producers to capitalise on the production advantages that the Arizona and Colorado offer.”

Founded in 1982, Computaleta has been serving the sign and graphics industries in New Zealand for over 40 years. The family-owned company distributes solutions in graphics, window films, hardware, lighting and digital signage. The partnership with Canon Production Printing Australia enables Computaleta to further expand its foothold in the commercial printing market. 

 Arlette Farland, Director, Computaleta, says:

“Canon is an excellent complement to our print portfolio and ensures we can provide our customers with the right solution for their business, including specialty applications, at the high speeds they and their customers demand.

With breakthrough productivity, a wide application range, and machines up to 3.1m, we now have all aspects of production printing covered.  Paired with the Computaleta responsiveness, service support and national footprint, I believe Computaleta provides the market with a viable, stable and strong option for their hardware decision making.

As a local family-owned company supporting the New Zealand market for over 40 years, we are passionate about helping our customers succeed.  Canon will help our customers be even more profitable and successful in the longer term.”