The investment in the wider DIGITAL MASTER 510, combining flexo and digital technologies, aims to expand the application range, boost production efficiency and increase sustainability. Geostick Group, a leading label converter in Europe, has developed a strong partnership with BOBST over several years. The decision to invest in another All-in-One solution, this time a DIGITAL MASTER 510, is part of the company’s strategy to explore new applications for existent customers, and to attract new clients, as well as to optimize operations across its facility. TheNetherlands-based printing company has been highly satisfied with the performance of the DIGITAL MASTER 340, installed less than two years ago, and the support provided by BOBST. Currently producing over 30,000 linear meters per day at the Geostick Digital Printing Center in Uithoorn, the press effortlessly handles a mix of jobs – from very small to larger run lengths – with just one operator thanks to all production processes in-line, producing finished labels in one pass. Commenting on the expansion, Cees Schouten, Geostick’s COO, stated, “Being an early adopter of the All-in-One solution has allowed us to remain competitive and sustainable, streamlining operations due to the close integration of flexo, digital, and converting technologies. Now, moving a step further with the DIGITAL MASTER 510, we will be able to transfer more complex flexographic work to this digitally oriented production process. This will result in even greater efficiency and higher sustainability.” The highly versatile BOBST DIGITAL MASTER 510, configured with a delam-relam module and a turn bar, offers Geostick a modular and future-proof solution, which can be retrofitted with additional modules in the future if needed. Like the existing installed machine, the new label press comes with BOBST ACCUCHECK for inline calibration and 100% quality control to ensure fault-free label production, less waste and more sustainable operation. Running at up to 100 m/min, the latest All-in-One machine at Geostick is connected to a turret rewinder from AB Graphic International, allowing fully finished label reels to be produced in a single pass, ready for shipment to the client. With this investment, Geostick expects to achieve significant milestones quickly, including producing 45,000 linear meters in one day over just two shifts. Most importantly, this high output can be managed by a single operator overseeing the entire one-pass process from printing, embellishment, and die-cutting to slitting and rewinding. “It is particularly rewarding that Geostick, as one of Europe’s most forward-looking label printers, recognizes the huge potential of the DIGITAL MASTER 510 based on the experience with its first BOBST All-in-One platform. This latest investment underscores the company’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance production capabilities and meet the evolving needs of its clients,” said Matteo Cardinotti, BOBST Head of Product Line Narrow-Mid Web. Nigel Tracey, BOBST NMW Technology Sales Director; Matteo Cardinotti, BOBST NMW PL Head; Armand van Huut, Geostick CEO; Cees Schouten, Geostick COO; Tommy Schouten Geostick Production Manager; Koen Vlieghe, BOBST Zone Business Director Labels

Koenig & Bauer is teaming up in a new partnership with industry expert Tessitura, an innovative software developer within Steuber group. This collaboration’s goal is to bring unprecedented levels of flexibility, efficiency, and transparency to production processes through the various functions available in Koenig & Bauer's myKyana portal. The partnership between Koenig & Bauer and Tessitura is built on a shared vision of an open, interconnected production environment that doesn’t limit customers to a single manufacturing brand. Tessitura’s Odeon-Platform, which serves as the backbone of this collaboration, is designed to intelligently connect all printing and finishing machines within a company, regardless of equipment manufacturer, whether modern or classic, and across single or multiple sites. Empowering the Industry with the myKyana Portal The myKyana portal, Koenig & Bauer’s flagship digital platform that is designed to streamline and enhance every aspect of the production process, now allows the seamless integration of third-party machinery. Two of the standout components of the myKyana portal are Kyana Assist, an AI-driven chatbot, and Kyana Data, a comprehensive performance dashboard tool. Kyana Assist is an advanced AI-driven assistant. It offers instant technical help, providing detailed, machine-specific guidance without the typical wait times of traditional service calls. Beyond troubleshooting, Kyana Assist is a resource for maintenance tips, ensuring smooth operation. Soon, it will also include AI-powered data analysis, allowing users to identify anomalies and make informed decisions quickly. Additionally, users can open support tickets directly within the platform. Data Utilisation at the Core – and Throughout the Processes Kyana Data provides deep insights into production processes through customised dashboards. It offers real-time monitoring, allowing users to proactively identify and address issues, which helps minimise downtime and boost productivity. The system also features predictive maintenance, alerting users to potential problems before they escalate. Additionally, Kyana Data includes an intelligent benchmarking tool that lets users compare their machine performance against industry peers and identify areas for improvement.  The Power of Collaboration: Koenig & Bauer and Tessitura  With the integration of Tessitura’s Odeon platform into the mKyana portal, Koenig & Bauer is offering its customers an unparalleled level of flexibility. This is a game-changing development: It marks a significant step forward in connecting machines from various manufacturers and makes. This radically open approach allows Koenig & Bauer to go beyond isolated solutions, contributing to a more connected, efficient, and future-ready production environment for all customers. The integration is facilitated by Tessitura’s innovative “Odeon Worker” and “Odeon Connect Box” technologies, which handle the complex task of normalising data from various sources. This means that no matter what equipment you’re using, the data is standardised and fed into the Koenig & Bauer Cloud, where it can be utilised within the mKyana portal’s suite of tools. The Benefits for Koenig & Bauer’s Customers The most significant benefits of this collaboration with Tessitura: •    Increased transparency: By bringing all production data into a centralised platform, users gain a comprehensive view of their operations, which is crucial for making informed decisions. •    Cost savings: The ability to integrate and automate processes across different machines reduces redundancy and cuts down on manual interventions.  •    Flexibility: Users can continue to leverage their existing equipment while also preparing for future advancements. myKyana’s open architecture ensures that new technologies can be easily incorporated, protecting investments in the long term. Addressing Industry Challenges: The Open Approach As Koenig & Bauer continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the printing and packaging industry, its commitment to open innovation remains at the forefront. The partnership with Tessitura is another example of how Koenig & Bauer is working against traditional limitations of brand and technology, in order to provide their customers with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.  

Dubai, UAE – August 27, 2024 – Konica Minolta, Inc. President and CEO, Mr. Toshimitsu Taiko, recently visited the company's Middle East office in Dubai as part of his global tour of Konica Minolta affiliates. This visit underscores his commitment to direct communication with regional teams and highlights the strategic importance of the Middle East market in Konica Minolta’s global operations. During his visit, he engaged directly with employees, reinforcing his management philosophy that values open dialogue and the exchange of market insights. The aim was to gather valuable feedback from the ground, which will inform his strategic decisions at the global level. The visit also provided an opportunity for Mr. Taiko to articulate Konica Minolta’s strategic direction in key areas, including business partnerships, production shifts to “Made in Japan,” and broader business initiatives. He emphasized the importance of the Middle East market, expressing confidence in its potential for growth and outlining his expectations for Konica Minolta's participation in the upcoming Gulf Print & Pack (GPP) 2025 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Mr. Taiko’s visit to Dubai reaffirms Konica Minolta’s strong commitment to the Middle East and its vision for sustained growth and collaboration in the region. He departed Dubai on August 28, 2024, to continue his tour of Konica Minolta’s operations in other countries within the region.

The 54th annual Innovative & Inventive Excellence Design Award (IDEA) was held on July 31st , 2024 in Tokyo, celebrating awards for the exceptionally excellent work of products and AccurioLabel 400 received the “Nippon Brand Award”, which is the second highest award following the grand prize. The product’s completeness and significance of existence were highly rated per the evaluation criteria. The Innovative & Inventive Excellence Design Award is a prestigious award which was established in 1970 by the Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun with the support of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and the cooperation of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and various industrial organizations. The award aims to promote and develop the design of industrial products. It comprehensively evaluates and selects products based on various criteria, including quality, safety, design, as well as economic efficiency and marketability. Additionally, many of the award-winning products advocate for being skill-less to address labor shortages, proving that our initiatives contribute to solving broader social issues, not just within the printing industry. The product utilizes the ‘Intelligent Quality Optimizer IQ-520’ for automated operations with R2R presses. It simplifies preset and adjustment functions for different media types, enabling operation without the need for dedicated and highly skilled operators. The IQ-520 significantly reduces work time, allowing for high-speed, high-productivity continuous printing up to 3000 meters. This device greatly contributes to the label printing industry's digital transformation (DX). Key features include: White toner printing and automatic color correction to support digital transformation in the label printing industry. Intelligent Quality Optimizer IQ-520 for real-time feedback during continuous printing, ensuring stable print quality. Automation of calibration, density adjustment, and profile creation, reducing manual work and supporting skill-less operation. Increased paper roll diameter and large-capacity toner hoppers, extending continuous printing length to 3000 meters. High resolution (3600 dpi x 2400 dpi) and fast printing speed (39.9 meters per minute). Enhanced usability with a touch panel for job management and print settings. Improved maintenance with easy toner replacement and troubleshooting via a touch panel navigation. Efficient design with color-coded components and streamlined access points.

FESPA Middle East, which connects senior decision-makers and trade professionals with leading OEM suppliers and distributors from the print and signage industry, will return to the Dubai Exhibition Centre on 20-22 January 2025 after a hugely successful inaugural event earlier this year. According to international market research company Mordor Intelligence, the GCC digital printing market alone is estimated to reach $1.16 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 8.93% over the next five years. In addition, a report published by Dublin-based market insights and analysis company Research and Markets states that the broader global printing industry sector was valued at $357 billion in 2023 and is expected to top $443 billion by 2028. The FESPA Print Census, a global industry research study updated in 2023, revealed that print service providers reported an average increase of 7% in revenues since 2018, despite the negative economic impact of the pandemic. Data received from 1,788 respondents in 120 different countries, covering sign and display businesses, screen printers, commercial printers, textile and garment printing specialists, as well as packaging printers, highlighted a positive business outlook. One of the key trends that FESPA witnessed was the demand for environmentally friendly products and practices, with 72% of print buyers actively seeking products that are eco-friendly and or produced using sustainable processes. Other significant trends included faster turnarounds, increased personalisation and shorter print runs. FESPA’s inaugural event, which took place in January 2024, attracted 150 brand exhibitors and more than 4,000 visits across three days. Participants came from 88 different countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, Qatar, Turkey, Iran and Tanzania. Almost three quarters of visitors wanted to see the latest digital printing technology and nearly half wanted to engage with exhibitors showcasing 3D printing, signage and displays. Visitors were also particularly interested in print suppliers of gifts and promotional products, inks and consumables as well as screen printing. The collective budget of these visitors totalled more than $530 million. The show also provided an ideal platform for FESPA’s free educational programme which offered high-quality content from 18 global specialists with an agenda that consisted of leadership sessions, workshops and practical demonstrations.                   Bazil Cassim, Regional Manager (Middle East & Africa), FESPA, said, “As an inaugural event, FESPA Middle East was extremely well received. On average exhibitors expected to generate over one million dollars in new sales, we had a 92% satisfaction rate with the event and 85% believe that the show is now an important part of their marketing strategy. “This has provided us with an excellent foundation to build FESPA Middle East into a prominent event for the region’s printers and sign makers, presenting industry professionals with new technologies and products, affording access to high-quality educational content, networking and knowledge sharing.” 

Durst Group, manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production technologies, proudly announces that Forge Graphic Works has become the 1,000th customer to install Durst Workflow software. This milestone, celebrated in May 2024, marks a significant achievement for Durst Group, highlighting its rapid growth and dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions to the printing industry. Forge Graphics, renowned for its innovative and high-quality graphic solutions, joins a distinguished list of customers benefiting from Durst Workflow's advanced capabilities. Based in Portland, Oregon, USA, Forge Graphic Works has a team of design and print experts specializing in large format printing and graphic manufacturing, installation, and fulfilment services for retail, events, interiors, and experiential marketing programs. The company operates as a hybrid of design agency, printer, and fabrication shop, focusing on quality and long-term relationships by designing with efficiency in mind from the start. Previously utilizing a third-party RIP, Forge Graphic Works found the process labor-intensive with limited automation, often leading to errors. Todd Ebersole, Strategy Director of Forge Graphics explains. “We wanted a more advanced workflow solution with integration in other parts of our business-like scheduling, pricing, and automation of common tasks that save us time and prevent re-work.” At the Printing United trade show, they discovered Durst Workflow and Durst Lift ERP. Impressed by a vendor partner's success with these solutions, Forge Graphic Works was particularly drawn to the vertical integration with Lift ERP and key modules within Durst Workflow, such as Verification, Impose Editor, and PDF Proof Approval. Configurable as an all-in-one solution integrated with Lift ERP, Durst Workflow proved particularly attractive, providing a single point of contact for implementation, training, and troubleshooting. Forge Graphic Works operates several printing systems from different vendors, all of which will be driven by Durst Workflow. The new software system, combining Durst Workflow and Durst Lift ERP, will allow them to efficiently and visually plan jobs and production schedules, make quick adjustments to maximize throughput and minimize downtime, and provide detailed analysis of the impact of rush jobs or shifts in customer deadlines. Additionally, real-time feedback on job costing on a per-project level will reduce purchasing labor, ensuring materials and special-order items are sourced quickly and efficiently. Michael Deflorian, Business Unit Manager, Software & Solutions at Durst Group, adds, “We are thrilled to welcome Forge Graphic Works as our 1,000th Durst Workflow customer. This milestone underscores the significant impact our solutions have on industry. We are committed to delivering integrated, user-friendly solutions that drive efficiency and profitability for our customers, and we look forward to supporting Forge Graphic Works in their continued growth and innovation.”

At PRINTING United in Las Vegas (10-12 September), Agfa will highlight its latest automation solutions for inkjet print production. The new MAX Bots for the Tauro H3300 and the autoloader for the Onset Grizzly X3 HS are designed to boost efficiency, reduce labor costs, and ensure precision in high-volume printing. Additionally, several of Agfa’s latest inkjet printing solutions will make their North American debut, featuring advancements in speed, quality, and versatility. “At Agfa, we’re dedicated to offering a portfolio of powerful, innovative solutions that meet every printing need,” says Deborah Hutcheson, Agfa’s Director of Strategic Business Development for Digital Print North America. “The MAX Bots and Grizzly Autoloader exemplify how automation can transform high-volume production, reducing costs and boosting efficiency. We look forward to discussing these advancements at Printing United and demonstrating how print service providers can make our inkjet printing beasts work for them.” Agfa’s Printing United booth will focus on the following inkjet printing solutions: Jeti Tauro H3300 UHS with MAX Bots – World Debut Already known for its high-speed output of up to 9,741 ft²/h, the Tauro H3300 UHS now integrates robotic automation to further increase productivity. The MAX Bots handle substrate loading and/or unloading with up to 150 cycles per hour, enhancing productivity and reducing labor costs. For maximum flexibility in handling both rigid and roll substrates, the dual-robot setup can be paired with the MAX Flex RTR module. This combination is perfect for print service providers managing diverse substrates and applications, optimizing throughput for superior ROI. The back-to-front camera on the MAX Flex RTR guarantees accurate double-sided printing. The Tauro H3300 UHS will be shown in a new 7-color configuration (CMYKLmLcLk), significantly enhancing the smoothness of light pastel colors and improving gradient transitions. This setup delivers superior print quality, particularly for industries demanding ultra-high quality, such as cosmetics, while also achieving additional ink savings through Agfa’s Thin Ink Technology. The 7-color configuration, the MAX Bots and the MAX Flex RTR have all been recognized with Pinnacle Awards, highlighting their innovative power. Onset X3 HS with New Autoloader – World Debut Agfa will show the new Autoloader for the Onset Grizzly X3 HS flatbed inkjet printer. Designed for high-volume graphics and packaging jobs, this advanced autoloader with a six-second cycle time keeps pace with the Grizzly top speed of 15,000 ft²/h (281 beds/h). It can handle up to four sheets simultaneously, with substrate thicknesses ranging from 0.1 to 50 mm. When paired with an unloading robot, this setup enables 24/7 operation, maximizing production efficiency and reducing labor costs. The Grizzly runs on Agfa’s Onset 560 CMYK+W ink set, offering explosive color strength and an extended gamut that captures even challenging shades such as Pantone 485C. This UV ink set enhances print quality with improved dot gain control, sharper edges, and more detailed image rendering. The ink’s superior quality is matched by its cost efficiency, with Agfa’s Thin Ink Layer technology reducing ink consumption by up to 22%, and a fast white ink mode increasing productivity by 40% compared to non-Agfa inks. The new Grizzly Autoloader and the Onset 560 inks have both received Pinnacle Awards. In addition to the new automation solutions, the following inkjet printers will be put in the spotlight Jeti Condor RTR5200 – North American Debut The Jeti Condor RTR5200 is a roll-to-roll inkjet printer with an impressive 205-inch wingspan, setting new standards for speed (up to 7,233 ft²/h) and image quality. It handles a variety of flexible substrates, supporting up to three rolls simultaneously. With field-upgradable light colors, white, and clear options, the Condor offers extensive design flexibility and multiple media handling solutions. It also features a range of automation options that streamline the entire printing and finishing process, enhancing efficiency. Jeti Bronco H3300 – North American Debut The Jeti Bronco H3300 is a powerful addition to Agfa’s high-end UV LED inkjet printers. With a width of 130 inches, this hybrid printer handles a variety of sign and display jobs in six colors plus white, with optional primer. Its independent dual-roll printing capability and continuous board feeding system make it a productive workhorse. Initially offered with two rows of print heads, the Bronco can be field-upgraded to a four-row version, making it a future-proof investment that enhances productivity and ROI. Anapurna Ciervo H3200i LED The Anapurna Ciervo H3200i LED is being commercially released at the expo. This 6-color + white hybrid printer, with a width of 126 inches, represents the evolution of the Anapurna family, which has been a staple in the industry for more than 20 years. The Ciervo is designed for versatility, tackling a wide range of print jobs with enhanced print quality and productivity – boasting a 70% increase in speed in Production Mode compared to its predecessor. Its continuous board feeding capability allows efficient printing on up to four boards simultaneously, making it ideal for printing companies looking for agility and performance. Versatile and exceptional Powerful software offering All printers at the booth are driven by the latest version of Agfa’s Asanti workflow software, an all-in-one print production hub that automates the entire process, saving time and money. The software’s browser-based Production Dashboard provides insights into production metrics and interfaces with MIS/ERP systems for optimized operations. Complementary tools like StoreFront (web-to-print) and PrintTune (print standardization and monitoring) will also be demonstrated. Experience Beastly Prints Visitors to the Agfa booth can explore an inspiring range of inkjet print samples, as the printers will be running a variety of rigid and roll substrates, including corrugated, fabric and block-out banner materials. These samples highlight the versatility and exceptional print quality of Agfa’s printers. Industrial Inkjet Expertise Agfa’s industrial inkjet experts will also be present at the booth to discuss Agfa’s industrial printing solutions, including the SpeedSet Orca 1060 for the packaging market, the InterioJet for laminate décor paper printing, the Alussa for leather decoration, as well as Agfa’s UV- and water-based inks for dedicated industrial applications. To experience Agfa’s powerful inkjet solutions in action at Printing United Expo 2024, visit booth #C1761 from September 10-12 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.