PLATESENSE It all makes perfect sense for Typecast - A - Fujifilm
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PRINT! WINTER 2016/17
SPRING 2019
Driving excellence in print
A
WORKFLOW
PLATESENSE
It all makes perfect sense for Typecast
In this issue 1 New Acuity flatbed Fujifilm’s PLATESENSE programme was launched
PRINT! SPRING 2019
Fujifilm announces the first printer to make pre-press for offset printers easier to both
in its Acuity flatbed range to feature
LED-curing
finance and manage. So in our cover story this
month, we take an in-depth look at a printer in the
2-7 Wide format
UK who has taken the plunge, benefiting from being
Oedim, one of Spain’s largest wide
format print providers, assesses
able to introduce a new plate production solution
the benefits of its investment in with no capital investment, and in the process also
Fujifilm’s latest superwide format getting better quality from their new plates. A true
printer
win-win scenario. We also explore how automation
The Onset X with two white
channels has boosted production
and customer empowerment can benefit mid-sized
speeds and quality for leading global printers, in the second article of a three part series,
POS provider HL Display and take a look at how all types of printer can benefit
8-9 FESPA 2019 from the use of Phoenix’s imposition software.
Fujifilm uses FESPA 2019 to Our feature on the power of print in this issue,
showcase how the Acuity Ultra can published by kind permission of Two Sides, focuses
transform the production of high
quality indoor applications and on how a few major digital brands, including
outdoor signage Facebook, AirBnb and Amazon, have turned to print to
10-13 Offset enhance their marketing efforts, an exciting and very
UK print and design company real sign of the power of print. We also feature two
Typecast Colour benefits from
Fujifilm's new Platesense
programme
German printers who reflect on why they invested
in the Jet Press for the production of packaging and
Acuity flatbed gets the
14-17 Opinion
small format point-of-sale, with the quality of print
being at the heart of their decision making. LED treatment
As Facebook, Buzzfeed, Uber,
AirBnB and Amazon turn to print,
In the world of superwide format print, we take a The first printer in the Acuity flatbed range to feature LED-curing offers customers 01
Sam Upton asks whether the days look at another very happy customer for the Acuity added flexibility, increased sustainability and enhanced print quality.
of digital-only marketing are coming Ultra printer. With eight superwide machines already
to an end
WIDE FORMAT
installed, this major Spanish printer was amazed at In February, Fujifilm announced the The Acuity LED 40 features a new looking for more environmentally
18-21 Workflow the productivity and quality achievable with this launch of the Acuity LED 40 series LED ink, Uvijet KL, and is available sustainable solutions, and to maximise
The second article in a series, industry-leading machine, also to be featured on of flatbed printers. Building on the with four, six or eight colour channels. efficiency and profitability. The Acuity
based on reports from InfoTrends, success of the Acuity Select 20 and on Users have the option to add light inks LED 40 delivers all of this by combining
looking at the benefits of workflow Fujifilm’s stand G15 in Hall A5 at FESPA. We also visit
Fujifilm’s expertise in LED curing that and varnish for stunning, high-value the versatility and reliability of our
automation and customer HL Display in the UK to hear about their Onset X dates back to the launch of the Acuity applications, and can also upgrade existing Acuity flatbed range, with
empowerment installation, featuring two white channels, and why it LED 1600 seven years ago, it marks the to Fujifilm’s brightest white UV ink the LED-curing capabilities already
Exploring the planning, imposition has given them an edge in a very competitive market. first time that LED-curing technologies ever, providing the highest possible enjoyed by so many users of Fujifilm’s
and automation benefits of Phoenix have been made available within the image quality in slower print modes, Acuity roll-fed machines."
software from Tilia Labs
Finally, we report on the new Acuity LED 40, which
Acuity flatbed range. making it ideal for photographic and
brings the benefits of LED curing to the diverse range Ideal for both growing mid-volume fine art applications. Furthermore, all
22-25 B2 Inkjet
of Acuity flatbeds. print service providers and existing of Fujifilm’s Uvijet inks are Greenguard
Two German customers reflect on
the packaging and POS capabilities For all the printers featured in this magazine, print Acuity customers who want to upgrade, Gold certified, so prints can be used
the Acuity LED 40 provides production safely in schools, hospitals or retail For more information visit:
of the Jet Press is a profitable and exciting business to be in. Long
capacity of up to 15,000 m2 per year, at environments. www.fujifilmacuity.com
may the Facebook and Amazon digital dominators of
speeds of up to 52.8 m2 per hour. The Existing Fujifilm Acuity flatbed
this world agree! standard model enables users to print printers with conventional UV lamps Acuity LED 40
on media or objects of any size up to already consume less power than
1.25 x 2.5 metres, while the X2 (double most competitive systems, even those Speed up to 52.8 m2
PRINT! is sent free of charge to senior professionals in the print, PRINT! was printed by Emmerson Press, an ISO14001 and FSC-certified printer, using
bed size) model increases to 2.5 x 3.08 which are LED-curable. The Acuity LED Sheet size up to 1.25m x 2.5m (Standard)
graphic arts and creative industries. Fujifilm’s Superia LH-PJE low chemistry plates and ZAC processor, XMF Workflow and XMF
Remote. It is printed on Essential Silk, FSC®-certified paper, using vegetable-based inks. metres. With the ability to print on a 40 range, however, uses an estimated and 2.5m x 3.08m (X2 model)
Publisher: Fujifilm Graphic Systems Europe
c/o Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems Ltd, range of almost any rigid or flexible 30% of the power of the Acuity Features new LED ink, Uvijet KL
Pysons Road, Broadstairs, material, the series demonstrates the Select 20, demonstrating excellent 4, 6 or 8 colour channels available
Kent, CT10 2LE, United Kingdom
www.fujifilm.eu/print
application versatility of the Select 20 environmental benefits and offering
Features Fujifilm’s brightest UV white
Email: [email protected]
range, as well as introducing the added significant cost benefits to users. ink ever produced
Fujifilm welcomes readers’ comments and suggestions. Please contact us by email,
Twitter: @FujifilmPrint ensuring that all c ommunications are clearly marked ‘PRINT!’. benefits of improved quality, along Says Mike Battersby, Marketing
For70%
Estimated more information
power saving overvisit:
YouTube: Fujifilm Print with the reduced costs and energy Manager, FUJIFILM Graphic Systems conventional UV curing systems
www.fujifilmacuity.com
Web: www.powerofinkjet.com consumption of LED lamps. Ltd: Our customers are increasingly
Design: Hiscock Ransom
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
Ultra superwide
supercharge Oedim, one of Spain’s largest wide format print providers, assesses the business
benefits of its investment in Fujifilm’s latest superwide format printer.
02 03
FORMAT
FORMAT
WORKFLOW
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WIDE
WIDE
“Customer feedback was immediate:
‘we want this level of quality and this
speed of delivery for all our jobs.’”
Miguel Angel, Co-founder and General Manager, Oedim
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
Having started out as a 40 extensive equipment portfolios with rapid end-to-end service seven Fujifilm machines in our the first to have their canvases, recommend working with them
m2 architectural studio in Jaén, in the country, with eight 5 m and extremely high levels of factory, so we have an excellent vinyls and printed textiles without a doubt. For us, being
southern Spain, specialising in roll-to-roll machines, eleven quality. relationship with them and they produced on the Acuity Ultra. technologically up to date is a
the design and production of 3.2 m printers and twelve “Though we already had an have always kept us informed Their feedback was immediate: basic requirement for doing
architectural plans, Oedim saw wide format flatbed devices. extensive range of 5 m roll-to- of their latest technological ‘we want this level of quality and business successfully, and
an opportunity to expand into Alongside these sits a range roll machines at our disposal, developments. When Fujifilm this speed of delivery for all our Fujifilm is a technological leader
the growing wide format market. of finishing equipment, which we’ve always recognised the introduced us to the Acuity Ultra, jobs.’ that has proven to be the perfect
23 years on, Oedim now occupies includes multiple digital cutters, importance of keeping our we were very impressed by the “Looking ahead, we see partner to help our business
a 14,000 m2 facility from which milling machines, laminators and technology up-to-date. Our production speed it was able personalisation in interior décor grow. No less importantly, their
it operates two distinct brands. industrial sewing machines. customers are continually to achieve at such a high level as a major trend in our sector and service is excellent from both a
One of these is Oedim, which is Oedim employs around 100 seeking greater levels of quality of quality, so we immediately this requires very fast and high commercial and technical point
responsible for the production staff across all departments at the same rapid turnaround wanted to be among the first in quality equipment to take full of view. From the pre-sale stage,
of large format printed flexible and works with major brands times they have become the world to have it. advantage. It’s in areas like this throughout the installation
materials, including canvas, and leading agencies, for whom accustomed to, so we are always “We had a few important that the Acuity Ultra will give us process and beyond, when they
vinyl and textiles, while the it produces a huge variety of on the lookout for new solutions customers who were challenging a real edge in the market. are needed, they are always
other is Clickprinting, which wide format display products. that combine exceptionally high us to improve still further the “We’re delighted with the there to help.”
specialises in direct printing onto Annually the company delivers quality with high productivity. already very high standard of new machine and pleased to
rigid substrates, such as PVC, more than a million square “Even before the Acuity quality we were delivering to have developed our relationship For more information visit:
aluminium and corrugated board. metres of printed products to its Ultra installation we had them, so these customers were with Fujifilm further. We would www.fujifilmacuity.com
In March 2018 Oedim became growing customer base.
one of the earliest sites in “Our customers demand a
the world to install a Fujifilm fast and efficient service and
Acuity Ultra (then in the beta extremely high quality above
phase of testing) boosting its all else,” says Miguel Angel, Co-
already impressive superwide founder and General Manager
credentials. The company at Oedim. “We pride ourselves
now boasts one of the most on meeting these expectations
04 05
FORMAT
FORMAT
WORKFLOW
WORKFLOW
WIDE
WIDE
"When Fujifilm introduced us to
the Acuity Ultra, we were very
impressed by the production speed
it was able to achieve at such a high
level of quality"
Miguel Angel, Co-founder and General Manager, Oedim
Oedim
Location: Jaén, Spain
Fujifilm Products: Acuity Select
HS X2, Inca Onset S20 x 2, Uvistar
3532 R2R Printer, Uvistar 5m,
Acuity F67, Acuity Ultra 5208
Type of work: Huge range of
wide format print for a variety of
customers
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
HL Display is in the business of shopping experience for people Onset X1, supplied by Fujifilm, to to this investment, and a great of automation. was more than up to the task.
helping its customers to create all over the world. its product portfolio in January appreciation of their combined “With the many challenges “The fact that the Onset X1
attractive and profitable in- In the UK, HL Display’s Harlow 2018, has boosted production technology, having installed an the retail industry faces, we can incorporate two white
store environments. With its site acts as both a factory and speeds, improved quality and Onset S20 nine years ago.” says wanted to ensure we were in the channels was also very appealing
solutions installed in 265,000 regional distribution centre, delivered significant time and Adrian Edwards, Production best possible position to respond and it has given us a real edge in
stores across 50 countries, it is a predominantly for the UK market, cost savings. Director at HL Display. “This to them,” Edwards continues. the market. There are certain
global leader in the development but also for export markets in “We already had an excellent relationship played a major part “Being able to offer the latest product applications where our
of innovative and sustainable western and northern Europe. working relationship with in the investment decision, as did products with relatively short only alternative would have been
solutions, creating a better The addition of an Inca Digital Fujifilm and Inca Digital prior the boost in production speeds lead times is increasingly flood-coating using screen
and quality on offer from the becoming the norm, and this machinery. Now we are able to
Onset X1. Furthermore, we’re year we’ve seen a huge increase use a one-step process rather
very conscious that we operate in the demand for print from than two, saving us valuable time
Whiter than white
in a fast-changing environment, one major retail customer in and resources.
so the scalability of the Onset X particular. There was no way our “We’ve seen a significant
series platform gave us added previous machine could have improvement in the quality of
flexibility other machines could coped with such a rapid increase our print as well as an increase in
not match, including the ability in demand. This was a major output, allowing us to reduce the
The UK’s first Onset X platform to feature two white channels has boosted to boost output speeds, add ink factor in our decision to invest in amount of work we sub-contract.
production speeds and quality for leading global POS provider HL Display. channels and increase the level the Onset X1 and the machine We have also been able to
standardise our colour profiling
across all digital print machines,
making our work process simpler
and more cost-effective. With
results like these, we can meet
our customers’ expectations and
remain confident that we can
always find a solution to help our
customers solve their problems
and create opportunities both
06 07
today and tomorrow.
“I would not hesitate to
recommend the Onset X1 to
WIDE FORMAT
WIDE FORMAT
other businesses – the
modularity of the system
provides a platform that fulfils
today’s needs, while the option
HL Display (UK) to upgrade enables you to cater
for tomorrow’s demands.
Location: Harlow, Essex “Overall, Fujifilm was a
Fujifilm Products: Onset X1 pleasure to work with through
Type of Work: POS products for the sales and installation
a huge range of local and global process.” Edwards concludes.
retail outlets “They are a global organisation
at the forefront of print
innovation and the support we
were given was second to none,
from the project planning and
management, to the hand-over
and execution. It all happened
very seamlessly and we managed
to comfortably achieve our target
“The fact that the Onset X1 can dates for the completion of
incorporate two white channels was the process. It was one of best
installation processes I have
very appealing and it has given us a been involved with.”
real edge in the market.”
Adrian Edwards, Production Director, HL Display
For more information visit:
www.powerofinkjet.com
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
At FESPA Global Print Expo profile installations in Europe conventional UV technology, it
Acuity Ultra:
2019 (Munich, May 14th-17th), now complete, it is a must-see in runs at much higher speeds
key features
Fujifilm will use its stand (G15 in Munich as well. than LED competitors, but as
Hall A5) to showcase the Acuity The Acuity Ultra is available the vacuum table is efficiently Up to 236 m2 per hour
Ultra, a superwide format printer in 5 metre and 3.2 metre models water cooled, it does not build Uvijet GS inks – fully emissions-
targeted at the high end indoor with up to eight colour channels. up excessive heat on the print compliant for indoor applications
graphics and outdoor signage It uses a new, high quality, low plate, meaning no shrinkage and 6 colours as standard (CMYK
markets. This recent addition film weight Uvijet GS ink which allowing the use of heat sensitive plus lights), 2 additional white
to the Fujifilm Acuity range is GREENGUARD and AgBB substrates. Linear motors also channels option
is unlike anything currently approved. This ink has been ensure smooth edge-to-edge 3.5 picolitre grayscale printheads
available on the market. It is a specifically designed to deliver printing with no vibrations at the 0.1 to 2.0 mm media thickness
high productivity, UV superwide the highest quality and is fully end of the run. With a throughput
3.2 & 5 metre options
format printer offering almost emission-compliant for interior of up to 236m2 per hour, the
photographic levels of quality at graphic display work. machine is capable of printing Linear drive system
Fujifilm is set to use FESPA 2019 to highlight the greater speeds, lower cost in use With a 3.5pl drop size ensuring on three rolls simultaneously, as Chilled vacuum table
versatility of its recently launched Acuity Ultra and better return on investment incredible quality, the Acuity Ultra well as printing superwide format Powerful and intuitive graphical
than any other existing machine. is ideal for the high end indoor graphics up to five metres in user interface
platform for the production of high quality, high
It generated huge interest when display market, especially for width.
end indoor applications, together with traditional it made its FESPA debut at the brands focussing on the highest
outdoor signage. 2018 show and with several high possible quality. Operating with
08
Fujifilm at FESPA 2019 09
WIDE FORMAT
WIDE FORMAT
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
“The transition was seamless and
cost us nothing, as the installation
and maintenance of the equipment
are also covered by the fee.”
Chris Stainton, Co-owner, Typecast
10 11
OFFSET
OFFSET
It all makes sense
with PLATESENSE
UK print and design company Typecast Colour reaps the rewards of being
one of the first printers to sign up to Fujifilm's new Platesense programme.
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
and cost us nothing, as the takes care of the developer
installation and maintenance of change and offers a processor
the equipment are also covered clean at least twice a year, we
by the fee,” continues Stainton. no longer need to manage this
“Not only did Fujifilm install the process ourselves, saving us
processor, but they also had to further costs and time.
open up a doorway in the pre- “Most of our clients expect
press room to accommodate the fast turnarounds at competitive
machine and put in an extra door. rates. Our ability to reliably
And they even installed a water deliver this is how we retain
pump as our previous system our clients. We’re confident that
had been processless.” our partnership with Fujifilm
Typecast’s experience will enable us to maintain this
of working with Fujifilm has standard. The support we
continued to be positive: “When received throughout the sales
moving over to any new product,” and installation process was
says Stainton, “you anticipate superb – everyone was very
that there are going to be some approachable and supportive. I’d
teething problems, but we’ve definitely recommend working
had absolutely no issues at all with Fujifilm – they understood
"The press operators love and the press operators love our needs and have addressed
the Fujifilm plates – the Fujifilm plates – they’re them with the Platesense
they’re cleaner, more cleaner, more durable and
deliver better print quality due
programme. We see Fujifilm as a
long-term supplier and think that
durable and deliver better to a sharper dot on the plate. they will be able to support us
print quality." When the plate goes on the with other exciting technologies
press, it is more receptive to ink as our business expands.”
Chris Stainton, Co-owner, Typecast
and dampening. When viewed
individually, these improvements
12 13
are relatively small, but, when
put together, they add up to a
significant benefit – something Typecast Colour
Dave Brailsford, the British
OFFSET
OFFSET
Cycling coach, refers to as ‘the Location: Kent, UK
aggregation of marginal gains’. Fujifilm products: PLATESENSE
“Our three year contract also programme – rental option
safeguards us against increases Type of work: Producing a wide
in the cost of aluminium and, in range of products using offset
and digital equipment
fact, allows us to make a cost
saving as we know the plate
Founded in 1980, Typecast services a range of clients from with our previous plate supplier, was set up for the plates from price will be held for the next For more information visit:
Colour operated as a typesetting publishers and design agencies but after it increased its prices, our existing supplier, we were twelve months. And as Fujifilm www.platesense.com
house until forming a long to end users, all of whom expect we decided to explore other even happier with the outcome
standing relationship with consistently high quality. options.” says Chris Stainton, and it gave us the confidence to
litho print specialist Principal When Typecast’s incumbent Co-owner of Typecast. As part make the move to Fujifilm.”
Colour in 1997. With Typecast plate supplier of 15 years of his research into alternative Following discussions with
handling pre-press and Principal announced it was increasing its suppliers, Stainton visited Fujifilm, Stainton then decided
Colour looking after litho print prices, Typecast decided it was Fujifilm’s UK showroom in that the most cost-effective
operations, the two companies time to benchmark the supplier Bedford and was impressed supply option would be Fujifilm’s
continue to work out of the same against others and, as a result, by the range of high quality new Platesense programme.
factory unit in Kent, south east became the first company to equipment Fujifilm was able to Typecast therefore signed up to
England. invest in Fujifilm’s Platesense offer. “Having seen Fujifilm’s a three year contract to rent a
With an annual turnover of programme. Six months after plates in Bedford last year,“ he processor and pay for the 11,000
around £1 million in commercial starting to rent a Fujifilm plate says, “we decided to carry out plates per year, all for a nominal
print and reprographic sales, processor and Superia LH-PJE a comparative test and ran the monthly fee, eliminating the
Typecast produces a wide thermal low chemistry plates, same job on plates from our capital expenditure required
range of products including Typecast is now enjoying existing supplier and then on to invest in a new processor
greetings cards and annual multiple benefits and has no Fujifilm plates, with the latter and providing a consistent and
reports. Using both offset and regrets about the move. producing higher quality output. predictable cost.
digital equipment, the company “We had a good relationship Bearing in mind that the press “The transition was seamless
I
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
n November last year, a toy catalogue was a sense of an authenticity and trust – qualities
mailed out to millions of Americans. Given Facebook used when printing full-page apologies
that it was the run-up to Christmas and toys in the national newspapers after the data privacy
are among the season’s most popular gifts, there’s scandal earlier this year.
nothing unusual in that. What was unusual was “Paper-based items are finding a new and clear
the retail brand behind the publication. purpose,” says Phil. “The tactility, being able to
Titled ‘A Holiday of Play’, the 68-page hold it and touch it, then still look at it even when
catalogue was planned, created and mailed we’ve put it down, creates a level of permanence
by Amazon – the world’s most valuable online and a much deeper connection than the transitory
retailer. On the face of it, for a company that’s built digital experience.”
its vast fortune in the digital arena to produce
a print publication is one of the year’s biggest A hive of print activity
surprises in marketing. Amazon thrives online, While it’s heartening to note that the world’s
using a variety of digital platforms, sophisticated biggest digital brands are discovering the value of
use of data, and a lack of bricks and mortar stores print marketing, it’s important to note that many
to keep its prices low and its profits high. brands, retailers and publishers are continuing
But by producing the catalogue, Amazon has to invest heavily in print, understanding that the
not only demonstrated that print is a valuable reach and low cost of online and social media
marketing tool, but shown how a print publication doesn’t necessarily translate into physical sales.
can fit neatly into a hugely successful multi- The latest readership figures from the
platform marketing campaign. Published Audience Measurement Company
(PAMCo) found that 89% of UK adults interacted
Building a buzz with consumer magazine and newsbrand content
It’s not just Amazon that is turning to print to in a typical month, which 37.3m people reached
build its brand and expand its customer base through printed titles. National newspapers
further. Other online giants such as Facebook, have also experienced their best performance in
Uber, AirBnB, LinkedIn and even online global seven years, with print advertising rising 1% to
online marketing company Mailchimp have £153m in the first quarter (AA/WARC). It may be
all used print in the past few years to engage premature to get the champagne out, but it’s a
14 15
with their audiences in a more credible, tactile, move in the right direction.
memorable and trustworthy way. “There is a renewed optimism and verve
More recently, US news website Buzzfeed sweeping through the publishing market for
created its own newspaper, distributing 20,000 the first time in many years,” said Adam Crow,
OPINION
OPINION
copies around New York “to put some joy in the Head of Publishing Investment at media agency
physical world,” said Ben Kaufman, the company’s MediaCom. “The market is a hive of activity from
CMO. The newspaper ran content from the online an advertiser investment perspective.”
site, such as a guide to cooking steaks, a feature
on the world of viral challenges, and a page of Catalogue models
money-off coupons for similar internet-based Print catalogues are also enjoying sustained
companies. success, thanks to their ability to engage with
“As we move more and more into a digital world, their target audience at a time when they’re at
there are some subtle differences beginning to their most relaxed, using the sensory nature of
appear about how people feel about digital versus print to bring the reader closer to the brand and its
paper-based media,” says Phil Alexander, Joint products. While Amazon is new to the catalogue
Managing Director of leading paper maker GF game, retailers such as John Lewis, Tesco,
Smith. “We felt that digital was the future and Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Lidl and Morrisons have been
that continues to be the case, but over the reaping the rewards for years.
passage of time I think that mass of information “The amount of catalogues we print for
and the way it’s so instant is working against supermarkets runs into the millions,” says Steve
The pendulum swings back
it – we are realising that digital is a fleeting Middleton, Sales Director at finishing specialists
experience and we don’t get any feeling of
ownership or any real connection with it.”
That connection is what Facebook, Uber and “We are realising that digital is a
AirBnB are trying to achieve with the launch of
With many of the world’s biggest online brands turning to print to their own print magazines. Faced with increased fleeting experience and we don’t get
engage with their customers, it seems that the days of digital- competition in the battle for consumer attention, any feeling of ownership or any real
only marketing may be coming to an end. Sam Upton explains how as well as a desire to have a physical presence in
connection with it”
the hands and on the coffee tables of their users,
Facebook, Buzzfeed, Uber, AirBnB and even Amazon are discovering all three companies are turning to print to set Phil Alexander, Joint Managing Director, GF Smith
the value of paper. themselves apart, using the medium to foster
• A shorter version of this article originally appeared in The Page, the magazine produced by Two Sides www.twosides.info
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
16 17
OPINION
OPINION
Celloglas. “What we’re seeing this year is brands
spending a lot of time and money on the look and the levels are starting to balance, that print is
feel of their publications. Retailers know that a beginning to find its place in the complex area of
well-produced catalogue can completely alter multi-platform marketing campaigns.
someone’s perception of their brand.” It’s impossible to say what’s around the corner,
As well as being a permanent reminder of what new innovations will come along to further
a brand in the home, catalogues are a proven disrupt an already disrupted market, but brands of
way to drive sales. In fact, according to a Royal all shapes, sizes and backgrounds are discovering
“Retailers know that a Mail MarketReach report, 52% of people bought the value in print and, more importantly, using it
well-produced catalogue more than they planned when shopping with
a printed catalogue. They are also a convenient
to complement and boost their other channels.
“Digital is a great enrichment to our daily lives
can completely alter way to show customers a range of products, as and we have seen some amazing developments,”
someone’s perception of well as giving them important details about those
products. In the same report, 63% of people
says Phil Alexander at GF Smith. “But there’s
now an understanding that the tactility and
their brand” say it’s easier to browse through products in a permanence of paper does a completely different
Steve Middleton, Sales Director, Celloglas catalogue, rather than in-store or online. job to digital and people are realising that when
the two work together it’s a really powerful
A powerful combination combination.”
Of course, no one expects print to return to
production levels experienced before the advent A version of this article was first published in The
of digital media. But there’s a sense across all Page - visit www.twosides.info/the-page for more
areas of the print and marketing industries that informationXtra Automation
Automation where
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
it counts
The following article is the
second in a series looking
at the benefits of workflow
automation and customer
empowerment. The series is
based on reports compiled
by Key Point Intelligence/
InfoTrends, on behalf of
Fujifilm, which examine the
benefits of highly automated,
user-friendly workflow
systems. The first article in
the series, which featured
in the Winter 2018 issue of
PRINT!, looked specifically
at the benefits to small print
service providers, in particular
those with fewer than 20
staff. In this issue we examine
the ways in which automation
can aid mid-sized PSPs with
18 20 to 99 employees. 19
WORKFLOW
WORKFLOW
Introduction overlooked once the initial implementation is Customer service experience in 2018
The speed at which a printer can execute is a completed. These pitfalls cripple the printer’s Dealing with a high number of small jobs 39% It’s 2018, not 2008. The bar for customer service
differentiating factor in an e-commerce and ability to increase throughput, meet service level is rising with every new technology implemented
instant gratification world. Customers are agreements (SLAs), and contend with an ever- in the business-to-consumer (B2C) space, from
Customising the workflow to our needs 39%
expecting printers to deliver a quality product increasing number of small jobs—bottlenecks live online chat to voice-enabled status updates.
at a competitive price with a superior customer highlighted in the 2018 Western European Customers expect to engage with a business
experience, powered by online interaction and Software Investment Outlook survey from Keeping up with change; training users 33% online (mobile or web) and receive repeated
transparent communication at major stages of Keypoint Intelligence - InfoTrends (right). communications that their order is in progress
ordering, production, and delivery. Mid-sized printers must implement a universal and on track. Professional, corporate print
Managing multiple workflows 31%
Mid-sized printers face several challenges workflow that empowers their customers buyers down to the micro business owner expect
to meet these customer expectations. Many and increases production efficiencies through a similar level of customer experience when
printers have a patchwork of software solutions automating as many workflow touchpoints as Increasing throughput; shortening production times 30% ordering print today. So why are your customers
acquired over time that are often under-utilised. possible. e-mailing or sending files to your FTP site?
Maintaining and customising software to Fujifilm’s XMF Remote is a web and mobile
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
the needs of the business is also commonly equipped portal where customers can upload files,Phoenix rising
PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
view potential errors, collaborate in real-time, equipment might go down for service. Printers
and give approval. Better yet, the same file that is must implement a workflow where last minute
being viewed online is the same one processed for changes can be executed and qualified for such
print output.The solution solves many challenges exceptions. Phoenix imposition software from Tilia Labs, available as part of Fujifilm’s
faced in print production: Making a stock or quantity change is easy.
XMF portfolio, offers highly sophisticated planning and imposition for the
• Easy and natural for a customer and internal Switching the job to another press or print
staff to use, it starts by sending a secure link technology at the last minute is not as trivial. packaging, labels, commercial and wide format markets.
in an e-mail to the customer. Repurposing the job requires reprocessing of
• More Secure and easier to maintain and use the file for colour management, imposition
than FTP. (stock, format size, and work style changes), and
• Control and access to your customer’s files is rendering/RIPing.
in your hands, not an online file service. Fujifilm XMF and ColorPath workflow tools
• Quality control is immediate as customers get make these types of changes quick and painless.
near-instant feedback to know if their file XMF takes care of format changes to move a
is acceptable based on an industry leading job from one printing press to another through
preflight engine. dynamic impositioning and ColorPath ensures
• Speed is of the essence, and one of the biggest colour is managed to that equipment’s colour
bottlenecks in any workflow is getting the space by using DeviceLink ICC profiles. Since
customer’s approval (which can now be done ColorPath is a cloud-based colour management
and recorded online). system, the quality of the print run can be
monitored from anywhere for colour compliance
Set the production workhorse free with using targets placed in the sheet margins.
automation
Most mid-sized printers are using a print MIS InfoTrends’ opinion
solution to track as well as manage customer Printers that get fast and efficient at print
and production information. Odds are favourable production have the competitive (and often cost)
that your print MIS solution also supports the advantage. New, shiny equipment can only take
industry Job Definition Format (JDF) specification the efficiency curve so far. There are ample time
for passing job details and intent between and cost reduction opportunities in streamlining
20 21
software solutions. Information sent in the JDF and automating job on-boarding up to the point Designed to take the labour and the same benefits across a huge
file can greatly automate production workflows of print, but it requires a workflow that is flexible the pain out of pre-press, tilia range of printing tasks.
Ocyan Group
by creating the job based on data in the print MIS and robust. Print production workflow tools from Phoenix is a highly automated Ocyan Group is a leading Portuguese print company
WORKFLOW
WORKFLOW
job ticket, pass the customer file to the workflow, Fujifilm are certainly capable of improving many planning and imposition tool Imposition offering a full end-to-end service from pre-press to
and provide an instruction set on how to process aspects of any commercial print operation. suitable for a huge range of When it comes to imposition, finishing, delivering a range of offset, commercial
digital and wide format applications to a variety of
the file and create the imposition. Fujifilm’s XMF work including packaging, labels, Phoenix (which actually
customers in Portugal and beyond.
workflow can work with any JDF-capable print cards, tags, wide-format, and started out as an imposition
New MIS integrations enhance Fujifilm’s XMF The installation of Phoenix workflow software
MIS solutions, such as Tharstern, to automate commercial print. Though it can solution) offers one of the most
in 2017 has transformed Ocyan’s wide format print
production and prevent the re-keying of critical Workflow Solution be used purely as an imposition comprehensive sets of imposition division, massively reducing the time and manpower
job specifications that can lead to errors. system for creating print ready tools on the market. Intelligent necessary to deliver high quality products to its
Regardless of the level of automation, there Fujifilm’s XMF Workflow has The integration with EFI Pace allows layouts, or exclusively as a and highly automated, it also demanding customers.
recently become fully integrated users to benefit from complete
are also peaks and troughs in print production. planning tool to estimate and offers the user pinpoint control Ocyan Production Coordinator, Carlos Júlio explains:
with both Tharstern and EFI Pace two-way end-to-end workflow
You must plan for the peaks. XMF workflow uses MIS systems. A key benefit of the integration. XMF’s messaging to report the production costs over all aspects of the layout “Complex job set up time that would typically have
core Adobe technologies, including the Mercury integration with the Tharsten MIS the EFI Pace MIS automatically involved with printing a set of when adjustments are needed. taken around half an hour previously, using a largely
RIP Architecture, adding multiple instances of is the ability to deliver additional completes all pre-press job planning orders, its true value is in the way manual process, now takes two to three minutes,
PDF content attached to an MIS job, activities in Pace Scheduling, thanks to the degree to which Phoenix automates
the Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE) based on how it can unite and automate the Automation
with automatic page assignment reducing the time for pre-press the layout process. Waste is also down as a result, and
much processing power is available at the server. helping for future reference data collection. A job can be imposition and planning process Increased automation means
over the course of a week, the time savings become
It is like going from a Vauxhall to a BMW without purposes. This enables printers to submitted by Pace to XMF directly, to create a seamless workflow less opportunity for human error
substantial. Planning time used to require two people
the cost. Adobe’s colour and trapping engines are streamline the delivery of artwork, and automatically processed in XMF. from initial quote all the way to RIP. and ever greater efficiency. It is for five days a week, now the same workload can
also leveraged to maintain the integrity of PDF and allows old jobs to be visible Once done, XMF sends information becoming increasingly important be accommodated by one person in three days. This
after they have been archived and about the production timings and
files through to the point of rendering for output
deleted from within XMF. This is the number of plates used back to
Planning in the modern print industry has freed up a huge amount of staff time to direct to
and minimising file processing irregularities. XMF especially beneficial for web-to- the MIS and the data is stored. This Able to search across millions of and Phoenix, with its intuitive, other uses and gives us the opportunity to target new
is also quick to adopt and implement the latest print workflows. enables the EFI Pace MIS to manage combinations in minutes to find modern design that runs equally customers and new business opportunities.”
Adobe technologies to ensure peak performance. not only the cost of the job, but also the most cost effective layouts, well on either Mac or Windows,
In addition, jobs created in the
plate utilisation.
Tharsten MIS are pushed directly Phoenix minimises both press provides the ultimate flexibility “Complex job set up time that
Last minute, qualified production into XMF, including the full job For more information on costs and post-press complexity. when it comes to automation,
A lot can, and usually does, change between the description, customer details, Fujifilm XMF workflow visit:
Hours or even days of work can be from plug and play with Enfocus
would have taken around half
initial request for a quote and the job shipping out
product details and imposition www.fujifilm.eu/print
reduced to mere minutes and the Switch, custom scripted hot an hour previously, now takes
requirements, saving time and
the door. The customer may request a simple stock ensuring that jobs are created system works equally well across folders, to full-on web based two to three minutes."
or quantity change, a more complex image/font consistently. square-cut and irregular shape REST-client. Carlos Júlio, Production Coordinator, Ocyan
change due to licensing restrictions, or a piece of designs, allowing users to getPRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
T PRESS
JE
Another Jet Press deal
N
FO
L
O
DI T
NG CAR
packaged up in Germany
Cardboard packaging print specialist, Ebro Color unfolds new opportunities
to win short-run work with Jet Press 720S installation.
"Nothing else quite
matched up to the quality
22 of the Jet Press" 23
German Brodbeck, CEO, Ebro Color
B2 INKJET
B2 INKJET
Based in Albstadt, southern “Run lengths have been “First there was the quality. “We see significant business
Germany, Ebro Color is a modern, trending down for some time,” Nothing else quite matched up growth opportunities ahead
cardboard packaging print says company CEO German to it and we became convinced with this investment,” concludes
specialist with more than 90 years Brodbeck. “We recently invested that it is at least as good as Brodbeck. “The Jet Press will
of history behind it. Founded in in a specialist offset press for offset, perhaps even better. We give us the ability to offer ultra-
1925, it has continually invested in short-run work and we’ve been talked to a few Jet Press users short-run jobs (down to runs of
new technologies over the years very happy with it. However, as and the feedback we got from one) both quickly and profitably,
and now produces cardboard the trend continues and average them regarding the quality was enabling us to produce high
packaging and display units for run lengths get shorter still, we that it is at near-photographic quality samples and prototypes,
a huge range of customers in a want to put ourselves in the best levels and that customers often and to seriously target the end
variety of sectors, from cosmetics, possible position to win new request that their work is printed user market for the first time.”
to food, jewellery and tourism. short run work and deliver it cost on the Jet Press, even for longer
Already something of a short- effectively. runs where offset would be For more information visit:
run specialist, offering run lengths “We were also seeing cheaper. www.imagineinkjet.com
as low as 25 units, the company increased demand for “The Jet Press users we spoke
decided to give itself even more personalisation and unique to were also very positive about
flexibility and lower its costs still identifiers on printed products, the up-time which they said
further by making its first digital so we knew this meant investing is reliably over 90%. We felt
press investment. After a careful in digital, a first for us. We looked that the quality, combined with Ebro Color
decision-making process, it chose carefully at the market and the reliability of the machine,
Location: Albstadt, Germany
to invest in the Fujifilm Jet Press attended demonstrations for a represented excellent value for
Fujifilm products: Jet Press 720S
720S specifically for folding range of machines. In the end it money and we also feel, based
carton production, with the press was a combination of things that on our research into all the Type of work: Short-run cardboard
packaging and display units for a
going into operation in September convinced us that the Jet Press technology out there, that inkjet
variety of sectors.
2018. was the right machine for us. is the future.PRINT! SPRING 2019
PRINT! SPRING 2019
T PRESS
JE
O
E
P
IN
T OF SA
L
"The Jet Press really stood
out to us. The quality and
The full POS package
out our history working with
colour gamut were far Fujifilm, we’ve been very happy
better than anything else with the level of service and
support provided, and the Jet
24 we looked at." 25
A recent Jet Press 720S investment has helped a German POS print service Press sales and installation
provider to offer a full-service package, including small format material, to Gerhard Worch, Managing Director, KL Druck process has been no exception.
And as for our customers, they
its customers. are very excited about the
B2 INKJET
B2 INKJET
new creative opportunities our
Based in Bergisch Gladbach, “We first heard of the Jet able to offer our customers a turnaround times required options, particularly some toner- investment in the Jet Press has
Germany, KL Druck has a Press when it was launched full service POS package, which by customers. Campaigns based alternatives, but the Jet provided to them."
proud 120-year heritage and at drupa, 2012” says Gerhard often includes both large and were traditionally planned Press really stood out to us. The
specialises in producing point of Worch, Managing Director at small format material. Until now well in advance, whereas now, quality and colour gamut were For more information visit:
sale and out-of-home products KL Druck. “We were then, and we’ve had to outsource smaller customers often won’t finalise far better than anything else we www.imagineinkjet.com
for a range of high-profile remain to this day, a Fujifilm format work, where run lengths details until the last minute. looked at, and we also liked the
global brands, including Audi, plates customer, but this new were too short to produce cost- As a result, they need print fact that the Jet Press is sheet
Adidas, Lindt and Primark. A machine certainly grabbed our effectively on offset. With our turned around at a much quicker fed and fits in perfectly with KL Druck
screen printing pioneer in the attention. We kept an eye on its investment in the Jet Press, we rate than ever before. The Jet our existing finishing systems.
years following the Second development over the years and can now produce everything Press helps us to meet these Furthermore, many of our Location: Bergisch Gladback,
Germany
World War, the company began as our business grew and our in-house, and can do so requirements, allowing us to customers are increasingly eco-
investing heavily in digital print customer requirements evolved, quickly and affordably without get finished products back to conscious, so the fact that the Jet Fujifilm products: Jet Press 720S,
technology around 20 years ago. the Jet Press became the obvious compromising quality. customers at a much faster rate Press uses water-based ink was Fujifilm litho plates
Its latest investment, the Fujifilm next investment choice for our “Over the past five years in and for a more competitive price.” also a major contributing factor Type of work: Rapid, high quality,
Jet Press 720S, began operation business. particular, we have noticed Worch continues: “We did, of in our decision.” short-run POS materials in small
and large format sizes
in August 2018. “We pride ourselves on being a significant change in the course, explore a range of press Worch concludes: “ThroughWORKFLOW PRINT! SPRING 2019
26You can also read
