Finishing & embellishment

Abbott Label invests in ABG’s RFID converting equipment

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:44:34 +0000

US-based printer Abbott Labels has invested in a 13in (330mm) RFID converting line provided by ABG for its new, specialized converting plant in Nashville, TN, to increase its production capabilities significantly.

ABG said RFID is transforming industries by offering product tracking and identification through a combination of microchips, antennas and RFID readers. It allows for hands-free asset tracking, thereby making processes faster, more accurate and more cost-effective.

As demand increases, companies such as Abbott Label, a US-based label manufacturer and long-time ABG customer, are significantly investing in RFID. Emphasizing the increasing importance of this technology across industries, the company recently announced the opening of a specialized RFID converting plant in Nashville, Tennessee.

The company currently operates five ABG machines. The latest ABG investment, a 13in (330mm) RFID converting line, represents a significant increase in production capabilities. The system is designed to handle high-speed RFID inlay insertion across multiple substrates, label sizes and packaging applications.

Mark Davenport, RFID plant manager at Abbott Label, said: ‘I feel that it’s the highest-producing, fastest solution in the market today. ABG’s equipment is rock solid. All the equipment I’ve bought over the last 24 years is still efficiently running today.’

Converting machines like those in the Abbott Label facility are bespoke RFID lines engineered for large-scale production. These systems support multiple lanes and varied web widths, with modular designs that can be customized to specific operational needs, ensuring flexibility and scalability in RFID label production.

ABG also offers Omega Ti200, an entry-level system designed to insert RFID and EAS tags into labels in a single pass and process up to 1,000 labels per minute. It is suitable for businesses entering the RFID as it has advanced features such as anti-static technology to minimize dust attraction and dual web guides for superior web control.

‘ABG’s advanced RFID solutions help our customers stay ahead in this rapidly evolving market,’ added Matt Burton, ABG’s global sales director. ‘By offering a range of entry-level machines alongside highly customizable systems, we actively support our customers in adopting RFID technology whilst offering increased efficiencies and the reliability associated with ABG solutions.’

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Abbott Label invests in ABG’s RFID converting equipment

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RFID equipment helps US-based converter to efficiently and accurately integrate this technology into labels.

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RFID equipment helps US-based converter to efficiently and accurately integrate this technology into labels.

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JetFx launches Fusion digital embellishment system

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 19:35:50 +0000

JetFx has expanded its digital embellishment product line with Fusion, a new system designed to elevate labeling capability, including wine paper stock and operational versatility to create visual impacts improving profit.

Fusion was developed as a completely integrated embellishment system to drop onto any web machine. It is a self-contained unwind/rewind foiling system, both a pre-cure LED and full cure LED lamp systems; diﬀerential shafts come standard for foil optimization, alternate web paths to deal with diﬀerent labelestock and automated wiping system.

The new system can embellish uncoated paper stock, wine paper stock foiling and spot coatings. It simplifies the operator setup of nipping, curing and stripping and allows the foiling of ribbon paths in different cross-machine placements. Jet FX said it also saves material because the ability to re-insert the foil allows for unused portions to be utilized.

The new JetFx product line can be retrofitted on any web press to deliver a low cost of ownership. It offers high-quality quality micro text capability, edge definition and placement accuracy.

‘We are excited to introduce Fusion as a game-changer for printers to provide brands looking to innovate and diﬀerentiate themselves with graphics that stand out and win on the shelf,’ said Ed Wiegand, CEO of JetFx. ‘JetFx invites businesses, creatives and printers to explore the endless possibilities that Fusion oﬀers.

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JetFx launches Fusion digital embellishment system

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The latest product has been designed to elevate labeling capability, including wine paper stock.

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The latest product has been designed to elevate labeling capability, including wine paper stock.

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ATB Systemetiketten expands with two Grafotronic machines

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 19:18:56 +0000

ATB Systemetiketten, part of the Asteria Group, has chosen to invest in two additional Grafotronic machines to expand its production capabilities further, building on the success of the first DCL2 350, installed in 2018 for digital finishing and converting.

The latest investment includes an additional Grafotronic DCL2 350 and a Grafotronic HI3 570, designed to process large rolls into finished small rolls efficiently. The deal was finalized with Graficon, an official distributor of Grafotronic equipment in the DACH region.

According to the company, the original Grafotronic DCL2 350, installed six years ago, has delivered outstanding reliability, precision and efficiency. These benefits, combined with Graficon and Grafotronic's ongoing support, reaffirmed ATB’s decision to continue leveraging Grafotronic’s state-of-the-art technology.

The new DCL2 350 enhances ATB's digital finishing capabilities with upgrades for even greater efficiency. Meanwhile, the HI3 570, with its 570 mm web width, integrates into ATB’s operations, enabling flexible conversion of large rolls to small rolls.

‘The decision to invest in additional Grafotronic machines underscores the importance of trust and long-term partnerships in our industry,’ said Sandro Trenna, area sales manager for Northern Germany at Graficon. ‘We are proud to support ATB Systemetiketten in achieving their production goals.’

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ATB Systemetiketten expands with two Grafotronic machines

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The company strengthens its competitive edge while meeting the increasing demands of its production environment.

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SA Litho installs South Africa's first Pantec Rhino E finishing system

Piotr Wnuk — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 22:44:37 +0000

SA Litho Label Printers has installed South Africa’s first Pantec Rhino E flatbed finishing system, purchased through Rotocon, in addition to a Rotocon Chrome RDF digital finishing machine to redefine local standards in premium label production.

A standout feature of the Pantec Rhino E is its ability to apply multiple foils and embossing effects in a single pass. It can reach speeds of up to 18,000 strokes per hour, enabling rapid production of premium labels while maintaining the precision required for intricate tasks like foil stamping and embossing.

Roger Meierhofer, senior area sales manager at Pantec Schweiz, said: ‘The Rhino E’s tooling cassette is optimized for frequent changes, a key requirement for short-run production. Notably, switching tools—whether for simple flat hot foiling or intricate embossing—does not require cutting the foil or substrate, ensuring seamless transitions.’

Operating alongside the Rhino E is Rotocon’s Chrome RDF 340 digital finishing system with a delam/relam unit and the turn bar on a moveable rail, two full rotary flexo units (one with cold foil and lamination), a rotary screen unit, Corona Treater, and a full-rotary die-cutting station.

The Chrome RDF 340 also features an integrated UV Ray curing system with a chill roller to ensure substrate stability. It also features Wink’s SmartGap Touch, a digitally controlled adjustable anvil system that offers a range of smart functions to streamline the die-cutting process, making it faster, easier, and more efficient. Both the UV Ray and Wink systems were supplied by Rotocon, the local partner in South Africa.

‘Introducing a machine of this caliber is always a challenge,’ said Michael Aengenvoort, Rotocon’s group CEO. ‘From technical integration to operator training, every aspect had to align perfectly with SA Litho’s standards. Our role was to ensure that this end-to-end finishing line incorporating the Pantec Rhino E with the Chrome RDF, not only met but exceeded its expectations.’

Dawrian Salies, general manager of SA Litho, added: ‘The decision to invest in the Pantec Rhino E was strategic. This was about differentiation. We wanted to elevate our capabilities and quality, especially in the wine and spirits labeling space, which demands intricate designs and impeccable finishing. Competing against multinational label producers requires us to match, if not surpass, their quality. With the Rhino E and Chrome RDF, we now have the tools to do just that.’

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SA Litho installs South Africa's first Pantec Rhino E finishing system

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The company also invested in a Rotocon Chrome RDF digital finishing machine.

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Monotech unveils new machines at Labelexpo India 2024

Piotr Wnuk — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 23:22:52 +0000

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Gracofoil invests in GM Core Cutter and SR550 machines

Selah Zighelboim — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:10:41 +0000

Gracofoil, a second-generation family business, has recently installed two machines from Grafisk Maskinfabrik (GM).

'At Gracofoil, we continually seek ways to improve efficiency and productivity in our operations. Two recent upgrades — the Core Cutter and the SR550 machine — have proven invaluable in achieving these goals,' said Philip Lavrijssen, business manager at Gracofoil.

The SR550, which replaced two older machines, can process over 60,000 meters of different substrates weekly. Gracofoil decided to integrate this machine because of its fast delivery and high level of service follow-up.

The Core Cutter delivers immediate access to high-quality, precision-cut cores. This machine has enabled Gracofoil to gain warehouse space because the company no longer needs to stock various core sizes, and it has provided cost savings through in-house cutting.

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Gracofoil invests in GM Core Cutter and SR550 machines

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The upgrades provide the company with various benefits, including efficiency and cost savings.

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The upgrades provide the company with various benefits, including efficiency and cost savings.

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Labelexpo Americas 2024: Finishing and converting

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:41:41 +0000

Labelexpo 02 December 2024

Labelexpo Americas 2024: Finishing and converting

Faster die-cutting, cutting-edge digital embellishments, enhanced automation, interactive technologies and strategic collaborations.

Faster die-cutting, cutting-edge digital embellishments, enhanced automation, interactive technologies and strategic collaborations dominated the finishing and converting section of Labelexpo Americas 2024.

Since Labelexpo Americas 2022, both digital and flexo printing presses have undergone significant advancements—digital presses have surged in speed, while flexo presses have embraced greater automation and efficiency. Mirroring these developments, finishing and converting equipment has evolved to keep pace, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced production capabilities.

“We are excited we were able to demonstrate the synergies between our technologies and how they can deliver unparalleled value to our customers in today’s extremely competitive market”

One of this year’s standout innovations was the introduction of much faster die-cutting systems. These advanced systems are engineered to handle the escalating speeds of modern printing presses, ensuring that finishing processes remain equally efficient and automated. This enhancement allows flexo technology to stay competitive with digital printing, especially in the production of shorter runs.

In addition to die-cutting advancements, there have been significant strides in digital embellishment techniques. Innovations such as inkjet varnishing, various digital metalization options and laser die-cutting are contributing to more streamlined and efficient production workflows. Other notable highlights included inspection rewind units, shrink sleeve converting equipment and specialized machines for RFID label production, all underscoring the ongoing technological progress in the industry.

Innovation through collaboration

Facing rising costs and a shortage of skilled labor, converters are under immense pressure to boost productivity. In response, Martin Automatic partnered with ETI Converting, Lemu Group and Lundberg Tech to showcase an integrated production line across four stands and over one walking aisle at the convention center in Rosemont.

Unlike a mere simulation, this live production run manufactured labels for Channeled Resources, demonstrating the efficiency and cost-saving benefits of an integrated production line. The process showcased the transformation of raw materials into finished labels in a single pass, in real time.

Gavin Rittmeyer, vice president of sales and marketing at Martin Automatic, remarks: ‘It required all of us to lower our guard and put aside our native caution so that we could make the line work seamlessly. I see it as a forerunner of the way things will develop in the market going forward.’

Maxime Bayzelon, president of ETI Converting, adds: ‘We demonstrated the synergies between our technologies and how they deliver unparalleled value in today’s competitive market. This collaboration aims to set new standards for efficiency, sustainability and overall production capabilities.’

Rittmeyer emphasized the importance of understanding end-user requirements and supporting them to maximize technological benefits without risk, highlighting the unique nature of their live demonstration.

Enhancing speed and automation

A B Graphic International (ABG) presented 12 machines from its global manufacturing sites, showcasing a portfolio focused on speed and automation. Central to its display was ABG Connect, an automated workflow technology featured on the flagship Digicon Series 3. This system offers automated job changeovers, revolutionizing production processes.

The Digicon Series 3 also debuted a new semi-rotary flexo head, capable of utilizing either a sleeve system or a cylinder with fully motorized impression settings.

Mark Hyde, sales manager at ABG, highlights: ‘One major benefit of this new head is the very quick makeready, running in semi-rotary mode at 305ft/min (93m/min) and up to 590ft/min (180m/min) in rotary mode, perfectly complementing the latest HP Indigo V12 digital press.’

AstroNova, alongside its subsidiary MTEX NS, showcased the TrojanLabel T2-PRO and Atom 3 + Cutmaster. Mike Natalizia, CTO of AstroNova, confirmed that after active beta trials in early 2024, the company has already begun booking and shipping commercial units to early customers.

Cartes, an Italian manufacturer, launched the compact GE261L Star Line laser converting machine and the Gemini Series GE363WJL. This combination with Jet D-Screen offers a semi-rotary flexo and laser converting system for no-tooling operations.

Additionally, Grafisk Maskinfabrik (GM) premiered its high-speed single anvil die-cutter integrated into the DC350 finishing line, boasting a rotary die-cutting speed of 120m/min (400ft/min) in semi-rotary mode.

Matthew Gindele, vice president of sales for North America
at GM, comments: ‘Our new die-cutter sets a new industry standard, delivering high-speed performance without the complexities and costs of traditional systems while offering maximum customization.’

Advanced finishing technologies

Grafotronic showcased four machines, including its flagship DCL2, in two configurations and two versions of the CF2. The CF2 in a HAPTIC configuration features flatbed screen printing and a hot stamping module with ultra-high stamping pressure control, enabling multi-stroke foiling and embossing.

The company also introduced Infinity, an automatic turret designed for producing a wide range of labels, including those on delicate, heat-sensitive substrates. Infinity offers numerous automatic changeover capabilities, ensuring clean label separation, automatic core positioning and finished roll ejection.

Karlville presented its post-print flexible packaging machinery for pouch production, lamination, and slitting. The compact KS-SUP-400-D pouch machine is engineered for short to medium runs, offering low power consumption, minimal waste, reduced maintenance costs and quick setup. Additionally, the Karlville Swiss Compact D Model facilitates rapid changes for standup pouches using Charter MDO PE Mono Material.

Gonderflex showcased its GFXL 3000 finisher in the dedicated FlexPack Factory area, demonstrating in-line thermal lamination, flexo printing and varnish, digital embellishment by JetFX, cold foil, cast and cure, and slitting. This multi-process platform is designed to finish rolls of digitally printed 30in wide web, alongside the R330 digital finishing machine and GFSRE-1300 compact label slitting machine.

Lemorau featured the Smart-L Premium compact machine, which includes a flexo unit in semi-rotary mode for an extra color or varnish. It also promoted the MEBR+, with its modular configuration for optional equipment like embellishment modules, and the MICR inspection slitter rewinder with variable data printing and video inspection for quality control.

Prati introduced the Digi Compact with the JetFx digital embellishment unit, combining analog and digital technologies for a wide range of materials. This machine offers an ergonomic, compact design with reduced paper passage and a focus on environmental sustainability by minimizing waste during setup.

Rhyguan Machinery presented the Top-Plus series, which connects with digital presses to enable spot varnish and semi-rotary die-cutting. Equipped with a fully automatic knife positioning system and various optional modules, the Top-Plus can achieve semi-rotary die-cutting speeds of up to 295ft/min (90m/min).

The art of embellishment

Nobelus demonstrated how tactile finishes can elevate prime labels through unsupported films and wet lamination. Featuring Karess Film for a luxuriously soft finish and FineGrit Film for a rugged, durable texture, Nobelus teamed up with Applied Molecules and GM to showcase the DC330Mini compact finishing system. This collaboration allowed visitors to experience premium haptic labels firsthand.

Angie Mohni, vice president of marketing at Nobelus, says: ‘Through our collaboration with GM, we introduced label converters to a finishing method that opens up cost-saving opportunities through higher margins and greater market opportunities.’

Dragan Nikolic, manager of business development at Nobelus, added that these special effects greatly enhance the consumer experience and help drive sales in promising markets that might otherwise be inaccessible to label converters.

“One of the major benefits of the new equipment is a very quick makeready and rotary mode speed to complement the latest HP Indigo V12 Digital Press”

JetFx promoted its digital embellishments across several machines, including the newly launched Solo Fusion, 13in wide print bar, and Solo FlexPack 30in wide, specially formulated for eBeam and UV inkjet coating for full FDA compliance.

Mike Ferrari, marketing director at JetFx, emphasized that the FDA compliance of Solo FlexPack is immensely important, especially since most flexible packaging is used in the food sector.

Embracing RFID technology

Labelexpo Americas 2024 highlighted RFID technology as a key focus area, driven by expanding mandates from major retailers like Walmart and others. The event featured dedicated areas where converters could experience the entire RFID production process, including live demonstrations of smart label production and data management.

Delta ModTech conducted RFID tag insertion demonstrations using its patented Island Transfer module and Delta Crusader platform, inserting RFID tags into pre-printed, die-cut labels.

Graphimecc Group showcased its expertise in automated machines for RFID serialization, precision converting, and mass encoding, presenting a new generation of entry-level converting and encoding machines tailored for high productivity without compromising automation or error rates.

Rosas Maschinenbau demonstrated the Leopard 300, a bidirectional tabletop rewinder with advanced RFID serialization and coding capabilities. David Rosas Wolf, managing partner at Rosas Maschinenbau, noted that with this new product, the company offers a powerful full suite for RFID label serialization and testing.

LemuGroup presented its LI220 RFID machine, capable of inserting RFID and NFC labels between the front label and the liner, equipped with a Voyantic system for real-time inspection. Tamarack Products introduced its versatile RFID inlay insertion equipment, available as standalone systems or integrated with flexo presses, designed for scalability and precision in high-volume production environments.

Highlights around the show floor

Actega promoted its low-migration inks and specialty coatings for labels and flexible packaging, announcing expanded cooperation with All4Labels Packaging Group to extend the use of Signite technology to more geographies.

Arrow Systems debuted the ArrowJet 330R M Series in the US, featuring a modular design that allows integration of various in-line technologies like priming, varnish, lamination and slitting. They also showcased the upgraded EZCut digital knife-finishing equipment with auto knife adjustment, roll-to-part options, and auto-job change features.

Ashe Converting Machinery demonstrated the Opal glueless turret rewinder with patented cut and transfer technology, including the Opal ISR full 100 percent label inspection slitter rewinder and a range of converting lines with full rotary die-cutting and wide web equipment.

Daco Solutions, in collaboration with Flexo Export, exhibited the Daco PLD-430M semi-automatic turret rewinder, featuring a 17in web, 40in unwind with roll lift, laminating station, two die-cut to register rotary die stations, auto-set slitting, and a three-spindle semi-automatic turret rewinder with roll closure.

DMS presented its latest innovations in hot stamping and foil-saving technology, including the FV-Series hot stamping system and advanced foil handling technologies.

D.P.R. Labeling showcased its Taurus system, a laser cutting and laminating machine that eliminates the need for pre-die cut labels and die tools. The Aries semi-rotary label finishing machine was also promoted, combining multiple finishing processes in a single pass with a touchscreen PC interface and flexible magnetic die plate.

EMT introduced its Rotocontrol portfolio of finishing machines, featuring integrated vision inspection, semi-automatic turrets, multiple slitting options, counting, and product detection technologies. They also promoted the Rotocontrol DT 2.0 modular hybrid digital finishing line, compatible with all major digital printing presses.

“Special effects and embellishments greatly enhance the consumer experience and help drive sales in all sorts of promising markets that might otherwise be inaccessible to label converters”

GPPE Automation Group promoted its range of roll converting and packaging products, including fully automatic thermal roll slitting, self-adhesive slitting, flexographic, and digital printing machines, serving various sectors like thermal paper, POS, ATM and logistics.

Jennerjahn featured its line of slitter rewinders designed for liner-less print and stick POS rolls, eliminating the need for traditional release liners and reducing waste and costs. Its machines cater to applications such as retail receipts, food and beverage labels, pharmacy, healthcare, logistics and hospitality.

Kampf and Atlas showcased their slitting and rewinding products, including the Unicon spindle machine, Unislit CS station machine, Kampf ConSlitter, and Atlas TitanSlitter series.

Kroenert highlighted its coating and laminating technologies for materials like paper, foil, film, cardboard and non-woven fabrics. The company promoted high-performance systems with web widths up to 3,300 mm, coating thicknesses from 100 nanometers to over 1 mm, and processing speeds up to 1,600m/min.

Mühlbauer presented an entry-level equipment package featuring the IL 30000 delam/relam unit and the PL light R2R, capable of handling multiple jobs within a single batch with a small footprint and high speeds.

Ningbo Jingwei Systemtechnik showcased its R-Cutter
series, an all-in-one label-cutting technology concept leveraging smart systems for quick setup and seamless integration into existing workflows.

Schober exhibited high-performance finishing technologies
for in-mold labels, folding cartons, and technical products, promoting rotary cutting, creasing, punching equipment and the RSM stacking machine.

Shandong Hoaco Automation Technology presented its motion-controlled die-cutting, web converting and packaging systems, including multi-station rotary die-cutting machines for diverse markets such as electronics, medical, cosmetics, printing, packaging and automotive.

Tectuprint showcased a wide range of finishing equipment, including die-cutters, cutters, robinators, coil elevators, punching units, perforators, stackers, rewinders, unwinders and roll lifters.

Wuhan Golden Laser highlighted its high-speed laser die-cutting machines, including the LC350, a fully digital and automated system for roll-to-roll, roll-to-sheet, and roll-to-part applications with a maximum web width of 13.7in and operating speeds up to 393ft/min (120m/min). They also featured the LC230 die-cutter for digital short-run finishing, offering zero pattern changeover time and no tooling costs, operating with web widths up to 9 inches and speeds up to 60m/min.

Zhejiang GaoBao Machinery showcased its slitting/rewinding and sheet-cutting machines for processing various materials, including paper, adhesive paper, plastic film, aluminum foil and non-woven fabrics.

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Tecnau opens new manufacturing and R&D facility in Ivrea

Akanksha Meena — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 09:16:23 +0000

Tecnau has opened a new manufacturing facility, located next to its main headquarters in Ivrea, Italy. This modernized space enhances its production and testing capabilities.

The new facility occupies a restored industrial building, once part of the Olivetti complex, a hallmark of Ivrea’s technological history.

With improved workflows and a focus on energy efficiency, the facility increases Tecnau’s manufacturing capacity to better meet the growing demand for its finishing products for high-speed production digital presses. It also includes a dedicated R&D testing area where it will continue to refine products and explore new ideas to address evolving customer needs.

The expanded space allows for closer collaboration with press partners, offering the opportunity to conduct joint tests on substrates, inks, and production processes—all in one location.

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Labelexpo Americas 2024 – Show floor sales

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:30:40 +0000

Labelexpo 26 November 2024

Labelexpo Americas 2024 – Show floor sales

Labelexpo Americas 2024 was a key venue for advancing partnerships, securing sales and showcasing technology in the label and packaging industry.

Labelexpo Americas 2024 proved to be a key venue for advancing partnerships, securing major sales and showcasing cutting-edge technology in the label and packaging industry.

Labelexpo Americas 2024 not only underscored the resilience and adaptability of the printing sector but also highlighted the growing demand across all printing technologies as converters seek to navigate a dynamic market.

Connecticut-headquartered converter Brook + Whittle entered a new partnership with Bobst at Labelexpo Americas. The company finalized the purchase of the Bobst Digital Master 340 All-In-One press.

‘We are excited about the partnership with Bobst and the acquisition of the Digital Master 340 with enhanced connectivity,’ says Jeremy Letterman, COO at Brook + Whittle. ‘This collaboration underscores our shared values of innovation and quality, and we are confident that it will bring significant benefits to our label printing services.’

L-R: Kristof Dekeukelaere, Bobst; Jeremy Letterman, Mitch Morgan,
Matthew Shannon, Brook + Whittle; Matt Bennett, Bobst

Matt Bennett, general manager of Bobst North America for narrow and mid-web business, adds: ‘The opportunity to partner with Brook + Whittle, one of the largest and prestigious label and packaging converters in the world, fits in perfectly with Bobst’s business strategy of supporting the most innovative packaging converters in the label, flexible packaging, folding carton and corrugated packaging segments.’

“We’ve closed multiple press deals since the show and are supporting a high number of requests for samples and demos at our technology center”

Labelexpo Americas 2024 also saw the NextGen Label Group investing in the first hybrid Gallus One in the US, a 15-color machine with eight flexo and seven digital colors, built on the new, wider 17in Gallus One platform.

For Mark Andy, which presented an array of new technologies in Chicago, this year’s show reset the clock for the manufacturer, whose new digital and flexo technology ‘raised the bar for productivity by combining high quality and high speed.

‘We had an incredible response at Labelexpo this year,’ says Duane Pekar, CEO of Mark Andy. ‘We saw across-the-board interest in our presses and finishing equipment, and a particular interest in the new Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 inkjet/flexo hybrid line and the S9 sleeve press. We’ve closed multiple press deals since the show and are supporting a high number of requests for samples and demos at our technology center - it’s been pretty much nonstop and we’re grateful.’

Labelexpo Americas was also massively successful for Durst. With two years passing since the last Labelexpo in America, there was high interest and a substantial amount of booth traffic to see the latest innovations the company had to offer.

‘The KJet hybrid machine shown was the first in the country and was purchased by Century Printing and Packaging. We look forward to working with this converter and seeing how the KJet helps its business,’ says Steve Lynn, director of sales for labels and packaging at Durst North America. ‘We also showcased our Tau RSCi with Hawk AI technology, which received a high level of interest in anticipation for the future of the labels and flexible packaging segment. We were also happy to help TexTape and three other converters invest in Durst innovation while at the show. Overall, we couldn’t be more pleased with the show, with interest in our technology, and the partnerships we established while there.’

Atlantic Packaging has acquired an HP Indigo 200K Digital Press to support its expansion into labels and flexible packaging. This strategic acquisition enables Atlantic Packaging to enhance its wide-web flexible packaging portfolio with more agile, short-run capabilities.

Nilpeter has been flooded with inquiries from customers eager to see its machines in action. ‘The response has been so positive that many are scheduling demos at our Technology Center in Ohio, where they can experience firsthand the capabilities of our presses,’ notes Lenny DeGirolmo, Nilpeter’s president in the US. ‘One of the key talking points at the event was Nilpeter’s ongoing campaign, which has evolved from “The Future of Flexo” to a stronger message: “The Future is Flexo.” This shift signifies the company’s confidence in flexo technology’s role in shaping the future of the printing industry.

Martin Teilberg, Nilpeter’s global marketing manager at Nilpeter, adds: ‘Our message at Labelexpo was clear—Flexo is our core product. Nilpeter returned as an exhibitor at Labelexpo Americas for the first time in six years, and we have truly missed having such a visible presence in the US market, which is among our most important. With our flexo technology, we can address many of our customers’ challenges, especially with our increased focus on digitalization and automation in our machines. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited to follow the developments and continue the dialogue with our many customers over the coming months. We are also pleased to see flexo making a comeback at exhibitions worldwide—it’s something both we and our customers have missed.’

At Labelexpo Americas 2024, Pulisi’s debut of its Aobead hybrid press DPIM-330F made a significant impact, resulting in five confirmed orders right on the show floor. This moment marks the company’s growing presence in the US market.

Olive Liu, general manager of Pulisi, says: ‘With over 11 years of experience, we understand what label converters truly need: consistency, color accuracy and product stability. During the pandemic, many of our customers encouraged us to develop a digital press that could help them transform faster—something with quick setup, high performance, and less manual intervention.’

The Aobead digital press has already been installed in multiple countries, including the US, Russia, Mexico, India, South Korea and Malaysia, with repeat orders from satisfied converters.

‘The Labelexpo Americas audience showed big interest in our equipment, the price advantage of Chinese products, but most importantly the continuous improvements, our product and service quality. Our onsite machine has been sold to a converter in Mexico and we received four further orders for DSMART and DPIM series right on the show floor. We also returned home delighted to have received 10 very strong sales leads this time, so the conversation with potential new customers will continue,’ adds Liu.

It wasn’t just Pulisi making waves at Labelexpo this year. Italian converting and finishing specialist Cartes sold most of its showcased machines directly from the show floor. Among them, Label Solutions, a Mendoza-based converter from Argentina, is set to install its newly purchased Cartes equipment, signaling continued growth in the Latin American market.

ETI Converting Equipment had a standout experience at Labelexpo Americas 2024, creating valuable new opportunities and strengthening relationships with key clients. A major highlight was the live demonstration it held in partnership with Martin Automatic, Lemu Group and Lundberg Tech, showcasing seamless in-line coating and converting capabilities.

One of the most memorable moments of the event was the official sale of the Cohesio line to a customer from Spain. Watching the machine in action on the show floor reaffirmed the company’s decision, solidifying its confidence in its advanced capabilities. With delivery in progress, the company is eager to integrate this technology into its operations.

Labelexpo also provided a platform for ETI to engage in meaningful conversations with converters throughout North America, generating strong interest in its customized equipment.

Grafisk Maskinfabrik (GM) had a standout performance, finalizing a deal with Canadian converter Cambridge Label for its GM LC350 automated laser label finishing machine.

Meanwhile, Grafotronic started the event on a high note with a significant sale to Graphic Packaging Group (GPG) on the first morning. The DCL System purchase, completed within hours of the show’s opening, was a major milestone for the company. Morten Toksværd, business development director at Grafotronic, states: ‘We always look forward to exhibiting at Labelexpo Americas, and this year has exceeded our expectations. Securing a major sale like this on day one is the perfect start.’

L-R: PJ Smith, Print Services GPG; Mike Bacon, Grafotronic

That momentum carried forward when Chicago-based Labels Unlimited Company invested in the Grafotronic CF2 Compact Digital Finishing machine with JetFX 3D digital embellishment—its third major purchase from Grafotronic, solidifying a long-standing partnership.

For Portuguese equipment manufacturer Lemorau, the response at Labelexpo was nothing short of impressive. Every machine the company showcased was sold at the event, generating buzz among both new and returning customers.

Sales director Susana Teixeira remarks: ‘Indeed, we sold all the machines. They were not pre-arranged deals which we closed at the show, they were actual converters coming to our stand, seeing the machinery in action and purchasing the equipment. Some of them are our new customers, some of them are already operating our machines in their facilities. Our success is only because of their success, so we are thankful for their trust in our brand and our equipment.’

Similarly, Bar Graphic Machinery (BGM), in partnership with its American distributor J&J Converting Machinery, showcased a range of new innovations, including the Label-i Automatic inspection slitter rewinder. With seven machines sold during the event, Daniel Carr, sales manager at BGM, highlights the diversity of the purchases: ‘We signed contracts for two 18-inch BGM Elite iSR inspection slitter rewinders, three BGM Elite eDSRT high-speed die-cutting semi-automatic turret rewinders, and two Label-i automatic inspection slitter rewinders. All of these will be installed across the US.’

Brotech introduced its newly developed SpeedMaster at Labelexpo Americas 2024, highlighting the machine’s semi-rotary flexo printing capabilities. The SpeedMaster reaches up to 100m/min in both semi-rotary print and die-cutting modes, providing high efficiency in label finishing.

‘Our cutting-edge finishing and integrated solutions deliver flexible, high-quality production, combining speed, modularity, platform integration, and versatility,’ says Ramon Lee, managing director of Brotech.

He also introduced a new digital embellishment unit integrated with their digital IML and label finishing systems.

Lee reported that the company has secured 10 orders from customers in the US, Mexico and Argentina, with ongoing conversations from the event.

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Piotr Wnuk

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FIG celebrates a successful Labelexpo India 2024

Akanksha Meena — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 07:01:28 +0000

Flexo Image Graphics (FIG), an authorized distributor of flexo presses and allied equipment from the world’s leading brands in the Indian sub-continent, marked a successful participation at Labelexpo India 2024, held from November 14 – 17 at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi-NCR.

The company demonstrated machines from Rhyguan and others accompanied by landmark sealing of big deals with some of the leading label and packaging companies.

FIG is an authorized distributor of leading brands such as Mark Andy, Rhyguan, Rotoflex, Luster, Kluge, KDS Quantum, Presstek, DYM Machinery and DCM ATN.

‘Labelexpo India 2024 was positive and the show’s overall atmosphere reflected the industry’s determination to drive a profound dynamic in order to make the printing & packaging industry more productive, innovative, and sustainable with the latest machines, equipment, and solutions,’ informed Gourav Roy, managing director, Flexo Image Graphics.

He continued: ‘It was really one of the most successful editions of Lebelexpo India till date for FIG. On all three days of the show, we received overwhelming response from trade visitors showing keen interest in all which we presented and demonstrated at our booth as technological advancements and innovations that inspired the printing, packaging, and label industries. We feel great that some landmark deals of machines had been announced during the show.’

With the presence of partner delegates from Mark Andy, Rhyguan and DCM ATN, FIG witnessed a jam of new buyers at its booth. Mumbai-based Barcom Industries finalized two Mark Andy presses from FIG. Being an old ally of FIG, Barcom has already been using a string of Mark Andy machines and the two more new flexo presses have been booked for boosting its productivity.

Gurugram-based Meraki Propack was FIG’s new customer which booked a Rhyguan TOP 520 dual die-cutting machine. A leading provider of label and packaging tailored to brands requirements, Dehradun-headquartered Zircon Industries is yet another FIG’s long-term customer that booked five finishing systems from the French company DCM ATN, first installations of the machines in India from FIG.

Roy added: ‘We are very pleased with how Lebelexpo India 2024 went. Our booth was well attended. Apart from generating many leads, we were grateful to seal some landmark deals on site with some key players.’

In the post-sales, FIG serves its customers through a centralized ‘Customer Support Department’ operated from the company’s head office in Delhi connecting with Mumbai and Chennai branches.

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FIG celebrates a successful Labelexpo India 2024

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The company booked several deals for Mark Andy presses and finishing machines from Rhyguan and DCM ATN.

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The company booked several deals for Mark Andy presses and finishing machines from Rhyguan and DCM ATN.

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Flexo Image Graphics

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ZheJiang Rhyguan Machinery

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FIG celebrates a successful Labelexpo India 2024