ProPrint June 2023

Supplying blue-chip machinery to the printing, packaging and converting industries in Australia and New Zealand since 2006

Visual Impact 2023

See all the highlights of this well attended Sydney show

Durst Open House

Durst Oceania hosts pre-FESPA event in Brixen for local visitors

FESPA 2023

An extensive review of all the action at the exciting four day Munich expo

I wish to say a huge thank you for accommodating all our crazy orders over the past fortnight, your brilliant service made it possible to reach all the deadlines.

Thanks for your help with these cards. The parcel arrived yesterday and they look great! We’re looking forward to pushing the raised foil more this year so we’ll pass some more jobs across soon.

The Guide looks beautiful! Gorgeous print and colours, thank you again for organising the press check and paying such close attention to our work.

The print is amazing - even better than I expected. Everything went so smoothlyyou were so prompt to respond to me, the tracker you have with the daily and update emails is fantastic, even the courier service you use has such good tracking info.

The folders look fantastic. Thank you so much for your help and tireless efforts getting them through for us. You are such a legend and fill us with confidence knowing you’ve got our backs.

Printing has already dispatched – thank you!!! I always feel confident sending an urgent job your way, and in this online world where you rarely get to deal with a real live human, I really appreciate that.

YOU

Show success for Visual Impact and FESPA

Good news travels fast and the fact that Visual Impact Sydney and the FESPA Global Expo in Munich in May achieved show success with high attendance and equipment sales is heartening to share.

Visual Impact Sydney, held earlier in the month, was declared by the organisers to be the biggest and best since the mid-2010s, while FESPA 2023, held a few weeks later, was given the ‘best ever’ nod of approval from several key executives.

The Proprint team attended both shows, and

Contents JUNE

two days prior to FESPA, I was honoured to be part of an inspiring group of local printers and suppliers who visited the Durst headquarters in Brixen, courtesy of Durst Oceania’s managing director, Matt Ashman, who generously added European excursions, comfortable accommodation and delicious food and drink to the experience.

In this bumper issue you can read all about the shows and the Durst visit, where you will also find a host of our regular features and industry updates that have come to be expected from this esteemed publication.

44 – 47 Durst Open House and Tour Durst Oceania hosted a two-day Event in Brixen on 21 and 22 May, attended by an inspiring group of Australian and NZ visitors. ProPrint was there.

COVER STORY

20 – 22 Graph-Pak managing director Tom Ralph runs us through some of the products the company distributes to the industry

STAR BUSINESS

18 Comment: Mick Rowan

19

24 – 25 After celebrating its 50th anniversary in the industry, Breen Printing shares its plans for the future, and passion to focus on training and apprenticeships

Breen Printing, our Star Business this issue, was a joint winner in the Printer 50 category of the ProPrint Awards last year, and if you are nominated, you too could be one of the winners!

Nominations for the ProPrint Awards are now open, and you can send them to https:// proprintawards.com.au/nominations

Tickets to attend the ProPrint Awards to be held on 3 November at Shangri-La Sydney can be purchased at https://events.humanitix.com/2023proprint-awards

42 Women in Print: VIC and QLD

43 Women in Print: SA, WA and TAS

54 FESPA Global Print Expo Munich: Fujifilm event

66-67 FESPA Global Print Expo Munich: who we saw at the show

68-69 FESPA Global Print Expo Munich: FESPA Australia event

SHOW REVIEWS

28 – 34 Visual Impact Sydney 2023

We feature all the highlights of the show, held from 3-5 May 2023 in Sydney

48 – 65 FESPA Global Print Expo

All the action at FESPA Global Print Expo 2023 is featured in this extensive review of the show which ran from 23-26 May in Munich

Editor Colleen Bate, 0434 259 059, cbate@intermedia.com.au

National Sales Manager Carmen Ciappara, 0410 582 450, carmen@proprint.com.au

Design and Production Manager Sarah Vella, sarahvelladesigns@gmail.com

Managing Director James Wells, james@intermedia.com.au

Subscriptions (02) 9660 2113, subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

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Mailed by D&D Mailing Services Wetherill Park, NSW, 2164

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Copyright © 2023 — Charted Media Group Pty Ltd

Cactus Imaging installs Durst

10-channel P5

350 HS D4 hybrid press

Cactus Imaging has taken delivery of the first Durst 10-channel P5 350 HS D4 hybrid press in the southern hemisphere.

ProPrint was on-site for the early morning delivery of the machine at the Cactus’ Silverwater premises in western Sydney and captured a time-lapse video of the unpacking and installation of the machine which is rumoured to cost over A$1.2 million.

This is the largest single investment Cactus Imaging has made on a new large format press that delivers speeds in excess of 700 square metres per hour at production quality.

Cactus Imaging general manager of operations Keith Ferrel was impressed with the speed of the hybrid press and made the purchase to deliver a return on investment through significant improvements in productivity.

“We are now able to produce a supersite billboard that is 42 square metres – 12.6m by 3.35m with this new Durst machine at 708 square metres an hour in three and a half minutes, whereas other roll-to-roll machines we have will take 25 minutes –and previously that was fast,” Ferrel said.

“We can also now produce 3m by 1.5m sheets of alupanel or corflute that are printed in 14 seconds which is a

Ball & Doggett launches new competition

Ball & Doggett, a supplier of quality printable, packaging materials and distributor of wide format printing equipment, has launched another competition.

This competition, named “Accelerate your Dreams with Yupo,” aims to celebrate and reward loyal customers who will have the chance to win a getaway to Japan or enter the weekly prize draw.

By purchasing any Yupo product from Ball & Doggett, participants will automatically be entered into the major draw for the journey to Japan.

This grand prize promises to be an

game-changer.

“It will print fabrics at 500 square metres an hour and that is at a full saleable production level.

“This machine can print high opacity white, at speeds in excess of 250 square metres per hour – that is almost 10 times the 30 square metres per hour we can currently produce on our other equipment.

“This is a 10-channel machine that will help future-proof our business. It features dual CMYK and either double white or single white and clear. We are likely to use double white and see how we go.”

This will also provide Cactus Imaging with the opportunity to complete more flatbed work for its clients.

“Flatbed work is something that has been increasingly requested from our current client base – without even going and looking for more work. A lot of work

unforgettable adventure, allowing the lucky winner and a friend to experience the captivating beauty, rich culture, and artistic inspiration that Japan has to offer as well as experiencing the charged-up energy at F1 Grand Prix in Sazuka Circuit this Spring.

Known for its exceptional quality, Yupo is a versatile synthetic paper that has gained immense popularity among printers and their clientele. Its unique properties and ability to behave like paper and maintain durability and withstand water and chemical contact.

By launching this competition, Ball & Doggett aims to showcase the exceptional qualities of Yupo while giving back to its valued customers.

In addition to the grand prize trip to Japan, participants also can win weekly minor prizes. Every week throughout the competition, one lucky entrant will be selected to win a $200 Visa Gift Voucher.

“We are thrilled to launch the Accelerate

we do for one client – which is very regular – what normally takes us three days we will be able to do in about an hour and half with this machine – so you can imagine the savings in terms of time and productivity. This is going to be huge for our business,” Ferrel added.

The purchase of the Durst P5 350 HS D4 was first announced in October last year.

Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman said, “Cactus Imaging is a true leader and pioneer in the digital wide format space and it thrills me to see Keith Ferrel and Nigel Spicer have again put themselves at the forefront with this investment.

“At Durst, we are confident the speed, quality and versatility of this hybrid press will aid Cactus Imaging in its future growth plans.

“I thank Keith and Nigel for having faith in Durst’s quality and ability to greatly assist in the ongoing success of Cactus Imaging.”

your Dreams with Yupo competition. With this competition, we aim to raise the Yupo brand and thank our loyal customers for their continued support,” Ball & Doggett synthetic national manager Shinsuke Mizoguchi said.

“We believe that the Accelerate your Dreams with Yupo competition will be an exciting opportunity and a chance to win.”

To participate in the Accelerate your Dreams with Yupo competition, customers will need to buy $1000 worth of Yupo product from Ball & Doggett to automatically go in the major prize draw.

The trip for two people to Japan includes airfares, five nights’ accommodation and two tickets to the Japan Grand Prix 2023. To enter the weekly minor draw, customers simply have to purchase a mill or roll pack of Yupo.

Got to https://ballanddoggett.com.au/ for more details about the competition.

The competition will run until 5pm on 4 August.

ASGA encourages industry to take advantage of VIC digital capacity grants

The Victorian Government has opened applications for its Digital Jobs for Manufacturing program, with the Australian Sign & Graphics Association (ASGA) encouraging local sign and display businesses to take advantage of the grants.

Organisations looking to build digital capability are the target of the Government initiative, which offers Victorian manufacturing businesses fullysubsidised training to upskill existing staff.

ASGA president Mick Harrold said it’s an ideal opportunity for future-focused industry businesses to upskill.

“The Victorian Government is offering grants of up to $5000 per employee to

eligible manufacturing businesses to enrol nominated employees in a free 12-week training course to learn new digital skills,” Harrold said.

“Businesses can select from a list of part-time, industry-endorsed courses delivered by Victoria’s top TAFEs, universities and private RTOs. These will run online, part-time, over the 12 week period, so your staff can continue working while they are learning, and on successful completion participants will gain recognised industry credentials.”

There will be five intakes for the program, with the first round already

complete. Round 2 has commenced this month, with further intakes in September 2023, January 2024 and April 2024.

“This is an ideal opportunity to upskill your staff with skills in new, digitallydriven technologies that can help you enhance productivity, efficiency and profitability, and diversify your business offering – however, places are limited, so you’ll need to act quickly if you are interested,” Harrold said.

To qualify, applicants must commit to providing relevant work activities to enable staff to apply and embed their learning in the workplace.

THE LATEST ENHANCEMENT IN 3D TECHNOLOGY

Durst Group wins three EDP Awards at FESPA

Durst Group won three EDP Awards at the FESPA Global Print Expo in Munich, Germany, for its P5 Robotics, P5 350 HSR and Durst Workflow Software.

Launched in 2007 by the European Digital Press Association, the annual EDP Awards are the most prestigious technical awards in the digital printing, publishing and packaging industries.

The awards are presented by a consortium of 21 European trade magazines for innovative solutions.

P5 Robotics is the next level of automation for flexible and continuous production cycles with long run times.

Durst Robotics drives the graphic industry towards the Industry 4.0 vision. It turns printing into a continuous process thanks to the use of robots on both the loading and unloading side, even when several plates are loaded side by side.

It is no longer necessary to start the next

print job only after loading a complete row of plates. The software allows each image to be started individually so the same robot can insert plate by plate without losing print time.

At the heart of P5 Robotics is the P5 350 HS D4 hybrid printing system, which has a feeder/stacker unit formed by two Kuka robots to handle the unmanned production of a complete shift.

P5 350 HSR is the fastest 3.5m LED web

printing system on the market, with a printing speed of up to 670 square metres an hour and the option to feed large rolls weighing up to 1,000kg and 635mm in diameter.

Durst Workflow is the company’s successful software that is now used by more than 600 print service providers worldwide for their prepress operations. The browser-based solution is a significant step forward for printers and converters willing to integrate all prepress steps in an automated manner. From the PDF to the print-ready file with all the elements necessary.

Durst Group CEO and co-owner Christoph Gamper said, “The current EDP awards bring us full circle. Five years ago, at the FESPA trade show – also in Munich –we presented our roadmap for an in-house software division and the development of the P5 printer series to offer the industry a new dimension in print quality, print speed, flexibility, automation and for more sustainability.

“Today, we have received recognition for our bold move, and more importantly, our customers are benefiting from it. The awards belong to all ‘Durst’lers’ around the world – I am delighted that our desire to innovate, coupled with a dash of Tyrolean stubbornness, has been recognised.”

PVCA rebrands as Visual Media Association

Volunteer or Sponsor help us grow!

Come and see the extensive expansion and renovations.

Need a venue for a function?

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The Print & Visual Communication Association (PVCA) has relaunched itself as Visual Media Association following the strategic members’ review.

The review found that members see the industry as more diverse than it has been historically and seek a broader positioning to reflect their businesses.

The announcement was made following a Special General Meeting, which was unanimously endorsed by the association’s members.

In addition to the name and brand relaunch, the association has committed to four key pillars of focus with supporting programs and services to enrich membership value and serve the industry’s needs.

IVE Group president and CEO Matt Aitken addressed the members saying, “With the merge, a full review of all the programs and services in

place, as well as deep engagement with members and industry stakeholders, our purpose is to ensure the long-term prosperity of our industry and our members.”

The relaunch includes a strategic plan that will see several initiatives rolled out in the coming 12 months to assist member businesses.

Aitken and Northwood spoke at a member webinar, announcing the relaunch and presenting the organisation’s refreshed strategic direction.

“Following member feedback, we were left with four keywords, however when we started delving into member comments, strongest of the four keywords were Visual Media,” Northwood said. The relaunch also follows extensive consultation with PVCA members who have provided clear majority support to the new name and focus.

Breaking the gender code in focus at Women in Print Sydney Breakfast

Women in Print’s annual Breakfast Series kicked off in May with its first event for the year in Sydney.

Danielle Dobson was the 2023 keynote speaker, headlining the series by exploring her book ‘Breaking the Gender Code’.

Dobson is a speaker, author, facilitator and mother. As a CPA with extensive corporate experience, she wanted to make a difference and commenced a two-year research piece across male and female leaders coping with professional work-life balance.

Her findings formed her book, which was the topic for discussion at the Sydney event and will continue to be discussed at the other states’ Breakfast Series.

Dobson focussed on how the Gender Code can hold back women in their professional and personal lives, as well as

unpacked why women feel the constant pressure to keep so many balls up in the air without seeking support or assistance.

She suggested that women adopt a Curiosity, Acceptance, Ask and Prioritisation (CAAP) strategy, which involves the removal of judgement and the breaking down of barriers, the taking of responsibility, treating people how they want to be treated and knowing what’s at the core of you.

She also suggested that women focus on what’s strong for what’s next. As part of this point, Dobson suggested that women

Fujifilm BI calls for submissions for Innovation Print Award 2023

Fujifilm Business Innovation (BI) Asia Pacific has started collecting entries for the Innovation Print Awards (IPA) 2023 annual competition showcasing the best production design and digital print innovations.

Under the “All In Your Hands” campaign, Fujifilm BI’s 2023 competition advocates that everyone has the power to transform their print production with the integrated suite of Fujifilmbrand production presses, printers, and solutions.

The company welcomes applicants using Fujifilm solutions in the Asia Pacific region. These include and are not limited to quick printers, commercial printers, corporate, and creative or design agencies.

A detailed list of Fujifilm printer models accepted for the competition can be found in the registration form.

This year, applicants can submit entries in 18 categories – 13 from the Application sector and five categories from the Print Technology/Subjective Basis sector.

Applicants are allowed to choose only one Application sector.

For the Print Technology/ Subjective Basis sector, there is no limit to the number of selections.

The deadline for registration is 31 August at 6.00 pm (Singapore time, GMT+8). Go to the Innovation Print Awards official website for more information and registration.

not only accept, but ‘make friends’ with challenges and they should build their capacity for self compassion.

The key message was for seeing it as not a way for judging ourselves positively, but rather relating to ourselves kindly and embracing ourselves as we are, flaws and all.

Dobson also addressed the importance of women supporting each other to take the next steps.

Women in Print’s annual Breakfast Series in May was also held in Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. The event in Hobart was a lunch instead of a breakfast.

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Durst Group has announced its premier partnership of the EcoPrint Summit 2023, taking place on 6-7 June in Geneva, Switzerland.

Durst said this move shows its commitment to sustainability in print, coupled with the support of industry leaders, reflecting the growing importance of ecological responsibility within the sector.

“Our partnership with the EcoPrint Summit is an exciting opportunity to bring together experts and innovators in the print industry to work towards a shared goal,” Durst Group CEO Christoph Gamper said.

The EcoPrint Summit will feature plenary sessions, roundtable discussions, learning workshops and Eco-Innovations Awards, providing inspiration, participatory discussions, and learning opportunities for those interested in making sustainable changes within their businesses.

Women in Print and the Australian Sign and Graphics Association (ASGA) have partnered to broaden the former’s diversity and inclusion program into the signage industry sector.

“Our industry is far-reaching and women across the signage sector can also benefit from the inclusivity, learning, knowledge sharing and network Women in Print offers. We welcome all women from the sign and graphics industry to the Women in Print community, an opportunity to broaden the support and development pathways for all of industry,” Women in Print honorary secretary Kellie Northwood said.

ASGA will join support Women in Print partners Print & Visual Communication Association (PVCA) and Media Super with Cactus Imaging and Ricoh Australia coming in as platinum partners this year as well.

NSW-based label, flexibles and pointof-sale printer and manufacturer

Foxcil has ceased all production and will be closing its doors as its owner Roger Kirwan exits the industry.

Kirwan said the company decided to cease production and manufacturing as it could not keep up with the costs associated with retooling using the latest technology and equipment.

All of Foxcil’s outstanding customers will be transitioned over to its friendly rival Guru Labels, with Foxcil general manager Carl Butchard joining the Guru team to continue to ensure the needs and expectations of Foxcil customers are met moving forward.

Foxcil’s existing plant and equipment was auctioned off in mid- to late-April with Grays Australia online.

Canon Production Printing (CPP) has expanded its roll-to-roll printers portfolio with Colorado M-series, a modular 1.6m machine with two speed configurations and Canon UVgel white ink support.

The scalable series includes M3 and M5, two base models offering a choice of an output cruising speed of 29sqm/h and 40sqm/h and maximum print speed of 111sqm/h and 159sqm/h, respectively. Both printers can be easily upgraded to W versions for white ink (M3W and M5W).

Introducing a white UVgel ink maximises performance for a full spectrum of premium graphics and décor applications, such as window graphics, labels and wallpaper.

The Colorado M-series is immediately available via accredited partners and CPP’s regional direct sales organisations.

Australian Community Media (ACM) is further consolidating its newspaper portfolio as the company is impacted by increased newsprint costs and a shift in advertiser spending.

The company will be shutting down or selling nine more mastheads, in addition to the four regional Western Australian newspapers that ceased in the week of 24 April.

According to the SMH, an email was sent to staff with ACM managing director Tony Kendall telling them that the business “was in the process of selling seven titles in the NSW centralwest and south-west regions after receiving an approach by Provincial Press Group”.

It added that the agreement has been inked, with the transition to be formalised by the end of the month.

Opal Australian Paper, which has been manufacturing brown packaging paper and board under a temporary EPA Victoria licence since its white paper operations folded, had its license ceased following a recent rise in sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions.

However, on 22 February, the emissions of SO2 from a recovery boiler in the mill were exceeded – 5,440 grams per minute (g/m) versus the limit of 5,000 g/m.

As a consequence, the EPA advised Opal Australian Paper that its temporary licence ceased to have effect from 24 March.

The Maryvale Mill has now reverted back to its previous EPA operating licence and outlined its next steps to address compliance of SO2 emissions.

“From an industry perspective, there is not much in this budget for businesses for the longer-term. There is some level of recognition for the needs of small business in this budget, and some of the budgetary allocations may benefit SMEs,” PVCA GM of IR, policy and governance Charles Watson said.

“The Budget acknowledges small business, but there is a need for greater focus on empowering them, promoting entrepreneurship and providing enhanced reasons to commence and remain in business,” the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSOA) said.

“While fiscally prudent, this year’s Federal Budget unfortunately lacks the urgency and imagination required to power the Australian economy through a period of anaemic growth,” Ai Group CEO Innes Willox said.

The Federal Government’s recent decision to overhaul the immigration system has been cautiously welcomed by the Print & Visual Communication Association (PVCA).

“The PVCA has long been advocating for a range of amendments to the immigration system. We know firsthand the frustrations being experienced by employers. From our industry’s perspective, the worker migration system has become overly complicated, costly and dissuades employers, particularly smaller businesses, from entering into the process,” PVCA CEO Kellie Northwood said.

Despite supporting immigration options for industry, the PVCA said it will continue to advocate and support industry partnerships across indigenous, disability, corrective service, and more diverse employment sectors to build strong employment pathway options for members and employees looking to embrace the industry.

A Minuteman Press franchise in Footscray, Victoria has received the Top Overall Performance Award from franchisor Minuteman Press International.

The franchise, which is operated by Jag Khairjani and Durga Murjani, was started by the duo in June 2020 – at the height of the pandemic in Australia.

The company had just celebrated nearly three years in business and has emerged stronger than ever. It has consistently hit sales milestones, alongside receiving the Top Overall Performance Award.

The duo said that the award meant a lot to them, especially as they are relatively new operators. “It shows us that our efforts in increasing product quality and diversity, and to engage with our customers, has helped us to be recognised as a high-performing location.”

Ball & Doggett, one of Australia’s largest distributors of printable materials, press consumables and now wide format printing equipment, is now distributing Metamark in Western Australia.

Metamark is a premium quality, high-performance self-adhesive sign vinyl that is widely used in the signage and graphics industry. The brand is known for its durability, colour consistency, and ease of use.

Ball & Doggett said the move shows that the company is committed to providing its customers with the latest and most innovative products and services.

Customers in Western Australia can now access Metamark’s range of highquality sign vinyl through Ball & Doggett’s distribution network, which includes a comprehensive range of delivery options for quick and reliable service.

Epson has signed a landmark technology and sustainability agreement to support First Nations Fashion + Design (FNFD), the NFP Indigenous Corporation whose goal is to promote the growth of the Indigenous fashion sector.

A big part of the discussion around the partnership between Epson and FNFD came from when Epson had just launched its Monna Lisa ML-8000 directto-fabric printer, a unique product FNFD had been seeking for some time.

FNFD’s founder and chairperson, Grace Lillian Lee said that the FNFD’s vision is to partner with organisations that can support First Nations designers, businesses and communities in the fashion industry in order that they can grow and develop their skills and businesses to become commercially self-sufficient, then allow the value they have created to flow back into their communities – thus creating a self-supporting ecology.

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Super and the gender gap

The latest available research shows that women’s superannuation balances are 28% lower than those of men. This figure reflects the average superannuation account balances of $121,322 for women and $168,474 for men

HOW YOU CAN TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUPER

Make sure your employer is paying your super. Regularly check your super balance and ensure your insurance and investment options are right for you.

SUPER AND THE GENDER GAP

Latest available research shows that women’s superannuation balances are 28% lower than those of men. This figure reflects the average superannuation account balances of $121,322 for women and $168,474 for men1 .

The latest available research shows that women’s superannuation balances are 28% lower than those of men.

Why women accumulate less super

Top up your super by adding a little extra. Making extra contributions – even small amounts – can make a big difference.

Combine your super. Consider consolidating your super into one account and avoid paying multiple fees.

Find your lost super. There are 6 million lost and ATO-held super accounts4. Find out if yours is one of them by logging into MyGov and linking your ATO online account.

WHY WOMEN ACCUMULATE LESS SUPER

Unpaid care.

Women are more likely to take more time out of paid work to care for families.1

• Unpaid care. Women are more likely to take more time out of paid work to care for families. 1

Part time and casual employment.

Insurance. Check your insurance and make sure you’re protected.

Women are more likely to work part time, and represent only 42% of full-time workers.1

• Part time and casual employment. Women are more likely to work part time, and represent only 42% of full-time workers.1

• 22.8% - The gender pay gap. On average, women earn 22.8% less than men and are generally under-represented in management.1

22.8% – The gender pay gap.

On average, women earn 22.8% less than men and are generally under-represented in management.1

• Women also live longer than men2, which means it’s even more important they have enough super to last in retirement.

Women also live longer than men2, which means it’s even more important they have enough super to last in retirement.

WHAT A COMFORTABLE RETIREMENT LOOKS LIKE

It is important to understand how much is enough in retirement. The ‘ASFA Retirement Standard’ benchmarks the amount of money needed to fund a modest or comfortable standard of living in after you finish working.

What a comfortable retirement looks like It is important to understand how much is enough in retirement.

Table 1 Sources:

Seek advice and education. Our Advice Services team is available to assist members and we offer a range of education webinars on our website.

*Lifestyle budgets: ASFA Retirement Standard - Budgets for various households and living standards for those aged around 67 (September quarter 2022, national); both budgets assume own their own home and are relatively healthy http://www.superannuation.asn.au/resources/ retirement-standard.

# The lump sums required assume that the retiree/s will draw down all their capital and receive a part Age Pension. All figures in today’s dollars using 2.75% AWE as a deflator and an assumed investment earning rate of 6 per cent

All figures are in today’s dollars using 2.75% AWE as a deflator and an assumed investment earning rate of 6 per cent.

Media Super calculators are there to help you work out how much you need in retirement. https://www.mediasuper.com.au/tools-resources/calculators

The ‘ASFA Retirement Standard’ benchmarks the amount of money needed to fund a modest or comfortable standard of living in after you finish working.

1. Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Women’s economic security in retirement Insight Paper, Feb 2020. Access March 2022 https:// www.wgea.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/Women%27s_ economic security in retirement.pdf

2. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Life expectancy hits a new high, 4 November 2021, https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/mediareleases/life-expectancy-hits-new-high

3. Source: ASFA Superguru. Women and Super. https://www. superguru.com.au/about-super/women-and-super. Accessed on 06/02/2023

4. As at June 2020: www.ato.gov.au/About-ATO/Research-andstatistics/In-detail/Super-statistics/Super-accounts-data/Multiplesuper-accounts-data. Accessed: Feb 2022

Media Super calculators are there to help you work out how much you need in retirement. https://www.mediasuper.com.au/tools-resources/calculators

There’s a lot you can do to boost your super and improve the quality of your retirement. If you need help, contact Media Super on 1800 640 886.

your super

This information is about Media Super and doesn’t take into account your specific needs. You should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement to decide if Media Super is right for you. Call 1800 640 886 or visit mediasuper.com.au for a copy. Also read the relevant Target Market Determination at mediasuper.com.au/tmd. Insurance is issued under a group policy with our insurer TAL Life Limited ABN 70 050 109 450 AFSL 237848. United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 offering Media Super products (Media Super).

It takes more than just motivation to succeed; that's why we're here

At Think Laterally, we don't just think outside the box; we help you blow it up! By breaking down roadblocks, defining your purpose and mission, and developing your identity to truly set yourself apart - our goal is for your brand to reach its maximum potential without compromising creativity or ideals. Let's start this journey together –preparing you for unstoppable success that makes even competitors' heads turn!

Eurotech Group unveils brand refresh and new website to better serve industry

Eurotech, the leading print and sign ware supplier in Australia, has announced the rebrand of its image and website.

After serving thousands of sign and print shops for over 15 years, Eurotech believes it is time to refresh its brand to better reflect the company’s values and commitment to excellent service, fast solutions, and delivery promises.

Eurotech Group Unveils Brand Refresh and New Website to Better Serve Industry

Eurotech can make it easy for everyone to do business in the print and sign making industry. We are very confident it will be well received by our clients and business partners.”

Eurotech, the leading print and signware supplier in Australia, have announced the rebrand of its image and website. After serving thousands of sign and print shops for over 15 years, Eurotech believes it is time to refresh its brand to better reflect the company’s values and commitment to excellent service, fast solutions, and delivery promises.

The launch, which was released in early June, features a new website, that is characterised by a sleek design, easy navigation, and more comprehensive information about Eurotech’s products and services. Clients will also be able to take advantage of refined online ordering, quoting and delivery tracking capabilities.

“We are excited to unveil our new brand and website, which will provide a more modern, fast and user-friendly experience for our valued customers,” Eurotech Australia's director of marketing and sales, Michael Smith said. “We believe that the new image and branding will further reflect the work and commitment to providing unparalleled service and innovative solutions to the sign and print industry.

“This commitment to make it easy has in fact been the unique reason for our clients to build their business with Eurotech over the past decade and a half, meaning we have been able deliver over 16,000 orders across Australia in the past year”.

“We are excited to unveil our new brand and website, which will provide a more modern, fast and user-friendly experience for our valued customers,” said Michael

Eurotech over the past decade and a half, meaning we have been able deliver over 16,000 orders across Australia in the past year”.

This will build on the company’s consistent, high-quality products and services that help sign and print shops succeed. It will alleviate the need of having to worry about supply availability, delivery times, and other obstacles that stop signmaking businesses from spending time doing what matters to them.

For more information about Eurotech and its rebranding, please visit the new website at www.eurotech.com.au

print shops succeed. It will alleviate the need of having to worry about supply availability, delivery times, and other obstacles that stop sign-making businesses from spending time doing what matters to them.

“We are committed to staying at the forefront of the sign and print industry and delivering the best print and sign ware to our customers,” added Smith. “The new website, image and tagline are all a reflection of that commitment, and they truly encapsulate our vision of how

The launch, which is being released in early June, features a new website, that is characterised by a sleek design, easy navigation and more comprehensive information about Eurotech’s products and services. Clients will also be able to take advantage of refined online ordering, quoting and delivery tracking capabilities.

This will build on the company’s

“We are committed to staying at the forefront of the sign and print industry and delivering the best print and signware to our customers,” added Michael Smith. “The new website, image and tagline are all a reflection of that commitment, and they truly encapsulate our vision of how Eurotech can make it easy for ev-

to know the new look!

Your Print and Signware Supplier - www.eurotech.com.au

16,350 deliveries across Australia to 2,803 print and sign shops in the past 12 months. Exclusively serving the trade - 24/7.

The digital printing revolution has levelled the playing field

over the next five years but an 11 per cent CAGR for digitally printed packaging, representing a massive gain in market size.

Ispent years attending trade shows the world over and loved every minute. Along the way, I gained an intimate knowledge of how quickly technology evolves; it is almost mind-blowing.

I would block out hours to chat with vendors about integrations and possible automated workflow solutions, imagining how far we could go linking upstream and downstream operations via e-commerce.

Jump forward to 2023, and it is no longer a competitive advantage but an absolute requirement. If you haven’t connected your digital front-end with CRM, MIS, digital press, inline finishing and so on, you are missing out. It doesn’t seem that long since I had imagined a time when an order could be automated from commencement directly into the warehouse. As it turns out, this is only the beginning of our digitally connected future.

From a manufacturing perspective, the digital production line can produce finished output inline. So, a savvy operator can automate from commencement to completion. This offers the ability to integrate custom embellishment techniques into the workflow, such as embossing, laser die-cutting, and even foiling. Adding these types of finishes can increase quality perception, the quality that customers recognise via an item’s look, touch, and feel, by up to 46 per cent. Take packaging, for example; foil enhancements increase attraction rates by more than 250 per cent.

Then there’s the evolution of the digital presses themselves, where the world’s most productive B2 digital solution, the

HP Indigo 100K Digital Press, prints over 100,000 impressions per shift. Combine that speed with abundant upstream and downstream capability, and you have one hell of a workflow.

Not to mention the AccurioPress C14000. It’s the flagship model in Konica Minolta’s range of SRA3 format digital toner production presses, introducing new levels of automation and self-calibration, plus plenty of configuration options and inline finishing modules.

Then there’s the Scodix Ultra 2000 digital enhancement press that fuses flexibility, quality, and productivity. Scodix provides a vast array of enhancements on a single platform, replacing the need for separate systems on a production floor. Included as standard is: Scodix Sense, foil, metallic, glitter, and spot, plus a range of optional extras.

These days, print companies are no longer content to simply churn out standardised products; they’re innovating with cuttingedge digital tech and becoming increasingly focused on delivering personalised experiences. So, we’ve gone from one size fits all to tailor-made solutions. Which makes perfect sense if you check the data.

According to research from leading industry analysts, Smithers, the analogue print industry was worth $734.5bn in 2017. By 2027, this market is expected to be worth $721.4bn. Digital print, on the other hand, was worth $122.9bn in 2017 and is expected to reach $189.8bn by 2027. We should also see a 3.1 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for packaging

Along with growth will come increased cross-channel marketing opportunities, such as tech-enabled interactive labelling and packaging with links to social media, QR codes and even interactive games. Digitally created interactive labels will also enable users to integrate with the brand at a deeper level, with the ability to access brand-specific micro-sites to promote individual products, events, or campaigns.

When you buy something online, it’s a wonder the physical universe hasn’t broken down yet. Between orders, printing, embellishing, and packaging to tracking, delivery, follow-up notifications and special offers, we owe our modernday convenience to an intricate dance between digital and reality.

Get ready to enter a whole new shopping dimension. Consumers of the present and near future are all about speed, convenience, and having access to every channel available. Without further ado –welcome to frictionless retailing.

In a world of advanced technology, the ability to implement digital printing, integrated workflow, automation, and enhanced finishing options gives business owners an undeniable edge. The digital printing revolution is here, levelling the playing field for all brand owners.

The benefits are clear. Streamlined production, cost savings, and improved customer satisfaction are only a few of the rewards that businesses can reap if they incorporate modern technology with tried-and-true production methods. With increased access to advanced tools, there’s never been a better time to take control of your printing process and get ahead of the competition.

The future has arrived, calling for innovators to power their businesses forward. Get ready – it’s time to start planning how you’ll bring cutting-edge technology into the fold.

Mick Rowan has spent the past decade building printIQ into one of the most recognised software brands in the printing industry, and with over four decades of experience, Mick truly has ink in his veins.

Standard form contracts: what you need to know

The PVCA’s Charles Watson looks at what business owners need to understand about standard form contracts, and what considerations to keep in mind

Renowned business guru Warren Buffet wisely said, “It is impossible to unsign a contract, so do all your thinking before you sign”. As a business owner, negotiating contracts is an essential part of your operations. However, how often are you placed in a situation with a supplier who hands you a standard form contract? Standard form contracts are pre-drafted agreements that are offered by one party to another party. These contracts are typically presented on a “take-it-or-leave-it” basis, meaning that the other party has little opportunity to negotiate the terms of the agreement.

Standard form contracts are commonly used in a variety of settings. Some examples include terms and conditions agreements for the provision of online services or software, rental agreements for commercial property, equipment leasing, and related supplier agreements. Although standard form contracts are a cost-effective option when conducting business, as they avoid the transaction costs associated with negotiated contracts, consumers and small businesses often lack the resources and bargaining power to effectively review and negotiate the terms in standard form contracts. To protect your business interests when dealing with suppliers offering up such contracts, there are several steps you can take.

1. Understand the Terms

It's important to carefully review any contract before signing it. This means reading through the entire agreement, even the fine print. Look for any terms that may be unfavourable or that limit your legal rights, or that give the supplier unacceptable rights. If there are any provisions that you don't understand, don't hesitate to seek advice or guidance.

2. Negotiate Where Possible

Although standard form contracts are typically presented as a “take-it-orleave-it” proposition, there may be some room for negotiation. If there are any terms that you find objectionable,

consider negotiating with your supplier to see if they are willing to modify the agreement. For example, you may be able to negotiate the length of the contract or the termination provisions. If the terms are not agreeable, don’t sign it and find another supplier.

3. Unequal Bargaining Power

When reviewing a standard form contract, consider the bargaining power of both parties. If your supplier is a large corporation with significant market power, they may be more willing to negotiate. However, some large corporations have shown themselves to be less than accommodating with their clients. If you are a smaller business with limited market power, you may need to be more cautious about accepting the terms of the agreement, and consider whether terms of the agreement are unfair.

4. Watch for Hidden or Unfair Terms

Standard form contracts may contain terms that are hidden or buried in the fine print and may be unfavourable to you if a dispute arises. Look for any

provisions that limit your legal rights, or restrict your ability to share information about the agreement. Examples include permitting one party to unilaterally vary the terms of a contract but not the other party, allowing one party to unilaterally vary the goods or the services supplied, and allowing one party to unilaterally determine whether the contract has been breached or to reinterpret terms of the contract. The expanding unfair contracts provisions within the Australian Consumer Law are now clearly being enforced by the ACCC, and in the appropriate cases the ACCC is commencing prosecutions.

5. Seek Advice

If you are unsure about the terms of a standard form contract or have concerns about signing it, consider seeking legal advice. An experienced lawyer can review the agreement and help you understand your legal rights and obligations. If a dispute arises they can also help you negotiate with your supplier to ensure the agreement is fair and balanced. Here at the PVCA we have assisted members to overcome various commercial contract issues, advocated for members and shone a light on unscrupulous behaviours, and at times mediated beneficial outcomes.

While standard form contracts can be convenient and efficient, they often have shortcomings that can disadvantage the other party. The courts are full of disputes over the terms and operation of contractual terms. Getting things clear and correct from the outset will help avoid later disputes or provide clarity if a dispute arises. By keeping these considerations in mind, business owners can establish productive, effective, and mutually beneficial relationships with their suppliers.

This article is of a general nature and guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

Graph-Pak: where discernment and automation is key

Graph-Pak managing director Tom Ralph, who has been building a reputable list of sales distributorships under the company banner since 2006, runs us through some of the products it distributes to the industry, and the discernment involved in its choice of offerings.

Graph-Pak has been supplying blue-chip machinery to the printing, packaging and converting industries in Australia and New Zealand since 2006, and provides specialist service engineers for installations, maintenance, and bespoke projects. Its sister company, Graph-Pak Laminating Supplies, offers a wide range of consumables such as laminators, rubber rollers, as well a range of spare parts, tapes, and chemistry.

The products that Graph-Pak distributes are chosen with care, in keeping with the company’s mission of providing advanced, reliable and functional automated equipment and engineering solutions and services to the industry.

“As the world continues to spin, our markets continue to change, and it is imperative that we change with them. That’s why I choose suppliers who relentlessly invest in R&D to provide the very best automation solutions year after year,” Ralph said.

“My dear now-departed dad used to say ‘no one gets anywhere sitting on their hands except sore hands’. Graph-Pak is exactly the same – I drive the business hard because demands are ever-changing and customers need fast, reliable solutions. They need fast, efficient machinery to meet the ‘on-demand‘ environment, they need prompt courteous service and support when called on, and they need good value consumables that deliver satisfactory results.

“This is the mindset my team and I have. Our customers are our partners, and this is the key to success,” he added.

Some of the products that Graph-Pak offers are:

INSIGNIA DIE CUTTERS

Insignia sheet-fed, rotary, flex magnetic die-cutters weigh between 1360 kg to 2495 kg depending on the size of the machine (die cutting section only). Built in the USA using American-sourced components, the machines have 38mm to 64mm thick solid side-frames to house the cylinder section and support the cutting station and can

Insignia die-cutters are built in the USA using American-sourced components

apply up to 1360 kgs of downward force directly to the cutting station.

The cutting dies utilise flexible die technology to work on a rotary magnetic cylinder system. The cutting tools, or dies, that the Insignia machines provide are available in a variety of different hardness depending on the substrate to be cut as well as the lifespan of the die and can perform die cutting and kiss cutting on the same tool.

A flexible die can be produced with radiuses of a circle that are not achievable

UK-based Autobond manufactures a range of high-quality lamination machines, ink jet spot UV, and foiling machines

on a steel rule die, as well as obtain proximity of cutting blades that is not available on flat bed dies. Flexible dies take up little space – they can easily be stored on either a tabletop or in a file cabinet.

AUTOBOND MINI 53 TH LAMINATION MACHINES

Autobond is a third-generation familyowned engineering company in the heart of Derbyshire, north of London, England which manufactures a range of highquality lamination machines, ink jet spot UV, and foiling machines to enhance and protect print.

Its highly skilled engineers take pride in producing top of the line machinery that is renowned for its quality, reliability, and productivity around the globe. Highly active in R&D, the company continually expands into new technologies and applications including:

• Ink Jet Spot UV/High Build Spot UV/ Digital Embellishment/3D Spot UV

• Foiling

• Roller Coat UV

• PSA Magnet Lamination

• Embossing

• Thin Film Laminating Machines

• Thick film Encapsulation/Edge-Seal

• PSA Release Liner Backing, Floor, Window, and Counter Graphics

• Reel to Reel & Reel to Sheet

Autobond Mini 53 TH, a best seller for Graph-Pak in 2022 and 2023, is a quick make-ready, one or two-sided, sheet-fed, thin film thermal laminator designed specifically for half-size offset and digital format applications. It has a modular design to add options such as a perfector, automated stacker, in-line UV coating, or an in-line foiling machine.

Some of its other features include:

• Ideal for short and medium run lengths

• Max sheet size: 53cm x 75 cm

• Min sheet size: 32cm x 22.5 cm

• Max speed: 50 m/min

• 115 gsm (80 lb text) to 650 gsm (24 pt)

• Quick make-ready

• Easy operation

• Small footprint

• Heavy-duty build quality

APR SOLUTIONS’ MAXI BOX PLUS MACHINES FOR E-COMMERCE

Maxi Athos Plus machines are designed to apply double sided tape with automatic feeders. Specifically designed for the corrugated market and Forex materials, the machines are available in two sizes: 160 cm (Maxi Athos Plus 160) and 220 cm (Maxi Athos Plus 220), and are available in up to six RAP applicators.

Other features of the machine are:

• Supports stiff cardboard, corrugated cardboard, PVC, plastic, acrylic, wood, and aluminium foil

• High-precision applicator placement with the new linear make-ready system

• Pneumatic shafts lead the product towards the delivery unit avoiding materials jams

• A professional operator is not required

EUROPA – B2 FULLY AUTOMATED LAMINATORS

A fully automatic laminator for sheets up to B2 size, the Europa is compact and easy to use and ideal for the print-on-demand market. Based on the successful Jupiter range, its features make it equally adept at running both digital and lithographic output.

It includes a suction feeder which offers a deep pile for longer-run work and is easily adjustable for a variety of different sheet sizes, as well as an infeed roller. The roller presents lightweight and digital output to the laminating and nip rollers where a missing sheet detector helps to prevent unwanted wraparounds.

Its other features include:

• High pile feeder to maximise efficiency for longer-run work

• Heated steel top roller

• Rubber nip roller

• Scrolled in-feed roller to help feed lightweight and digitally produced sheets

• De-curl bar which can be adjusted on the run

• Burster type sheet separator, automatically separates sheets up to B2 size

• Integral catch tray to suit various sheet sizes

• PLC controlled

• Compact footprint

• Centralised control panel

• Mandrel with hinged support that helps to adjust film laterally on the run

OSAKO AND YOSHINO BOOKBINDING EQUIPMENT

As the local agent for Osako, Graph-Pak sells the company’s Tener and Tener Alpha and model 368 high-end saddle stitching machines new , or cost-effective certified factory refurbished options as well.

In November 2022 the company was appointed as the local agent of Yoshino, the largest perfect binding manufacturer in Asia, and is bringing Yoshino’s Sirius PUR Perfect Binder to the Australian market for the first time.

“The exciting thing about these two brands is being able to offer a true ‘quality competitor‘ to the Australian and New Zealand markets. Osako Seiki is already regarded as one of the best on the planet for new equipment and innovation,” Ralph said, explaining that the reason Osako also offers refurbished machinery is that it recognises the demand for high quality units that are attractively priced.

Osako said its Seiki-certified refurbished machines have been completely overhauled to be good as new and offer a full warranty. They are made from Japanese iron, which is believed to have a 100-year warranty.

Bookbinding equipment manufacturer

Yoshino YM Machinery applies the technology and traditions inherited from its predecessor

Yoshino Shuppan Kikai Company Ltd, which was founded in 1911. The company offers PUR binders, perfect binders, auto trimming, inline and auto trimmers offline, compensating stackers and more.

“Yoshino takes pride in contributing to a customer’s success by providing machinery and services to help them reach the optimum from their investment. To me this is the perfect partner as the sale isn’t truly over until all the boxes are ticked,” Ralph said.

COL-TEC COLLATORS

Col-Tec manufactures highly versatile suction feed collators, booklet makers and associated optional equipment.

“Col-Tec collators are robust, and reliable and collate stock material and sheet sizes well outside the capability of other collators,” Ralph said, adding that the company has the most experienced and skilled collating machinery engineers

in the world and offers solutions for all collating applications, including certified factory refurbished machines at “great prices”.

In fact, Graph-Pak has installed six refurbished Col-Tec machines in Australia and New Zealand in the last 24 months.

“There have been important developments in collating in recent times, which have the potential to revolutionise finishing. Indeed, I believe that many finishers will be both surprised and impressed with the technologically advanced Col-Tec collators now on the market,” said Ralph.

Most of the products that Graph-Pak distributes offer advanced productivity and automation capabilities. This is not surprising, Ralph concludes, pointing out that automation has been the company's key pillar since its inception over two decades ago.

APR SOLUTIONS – Compact folder gluers for digital and offset, hot foil stamping machines, e commerce folder gluers and taping machinery.

BMATIC – Paper counting, tab inserters, friction feeders, batching machinery.

BOXWAY – The main products are on demand box making machinery for just in time packaging solutions, different box designs can be realised in seconds.

BUSCH – Pile turners, wate conveyors, table banding machinery, ink mixers and automatic punching machines.

COL-TEC – Flatbed collating systems, inline finishing, fold-stitch-trim.

COMPACT FOILERS – Our modules transform and bring a new dimension to your printing capabilities. They are suitable for both the application of cold foil and the creation of special 3D effects (cast & cure) using UV varnish on all makes of conventional and UV press.

DGM GLOBAL – Flatbed die cutters, packaging folder gluers high speed for solid board and corrugated as well as ancillary equipment.

INSIGNIA – The Insignia Series is a new class of sheet-fed rotary die cutter capable of diecutting, kiss-cutting, embossing, perforating, scoring, and cut-scoring a range of papers, plastics, magnetic material, PVC, styrene and polypropylenes. It is the only machine in its class capable of die cutting up to 30 pt. in thickness.

KOHMANN – Manufacturer of carton converting machinery and window patching machinery.

OSAKO – Established 1916, Osako is one of the world's most professional manufacturers of saddle stitching machinery, 3 knife trimmers, compensating stackers, section gatherers new and factory certified refurbished options.

ROLLEM – The leader in offset and digital print conversion for over 50 years, the most respected name for slitting, scoring, creasing, cutting, numbering, die cutting, inline with digital press finishing solutions.

THERMOTYPE – Digital finishing equipment – hot foil stampers, business card slitters from desktop to full industrial as well as the world's most flexible finishing machine the TSL2 which can die cut, kiss cut, perforate, score in cross directions, emboss, guillotine, drill holes, delivering endless capabilities.

TRANKSPAK – Manufacturer of strapping machines for the print media markets, inline and office solutions.

WINSHINE – Is a paper container making machine manufacturer with years of vast experience and expertise. Paper box-making machines we provide have a wide range such as paper lunch box machine, paper bowl making machine, and more.

WINPACK – Window patching machinery, easy nick grinders for removal of die cut waste.

YOSHINO – Perfect binders, PUR systems, 3 way trimmers and gathering machines.

Engineering, Maintenance & Rubber Rollers Services

We provide a national footprint of service and support for our products. Our trusted and reputable partners are TRS, Merhone, Grafika Links, JTS Engineering, Print Repairs and NewTech Graphics. We offer machinery and factory moves, preventative maintenance, breakdown and repair services, engineering and fabrication. Our rubber roller service offers a swap-out rubber roller service for products under our supplier banners as well as new roller sales and services, additionally, we supply the best rubber rejuvenator, rubber cleaners and washes.

TRS – Trim removal systems and bailers, conveyers, engineering solutions.

MERHONE – Engineering services, mechanical, electrical, service & maintenance of all press & bindery equipment relocations and installations.

D.W.RENZMANN GROUP – RENZMANN’s core competency is the removal of stubborn residues and the handling of the flammable organic solvents or aggressive alkaline washing agents used for this purpose. The market is making higher and more diverse demands than ever on the cleaning of ink-carrying components that are removed from the press after a job change. And because print runs are becoming shorter, necessitating frequent job changes, there are also more parts that need to be washed. That is why the efficient cleaning of anilox rollers, impression cylinders and press parts is becoming an increasingly important part of the process chain in print shops, paint and ink manufacturing and similar. We offer a powerful and robust systems for all cleaning tasks, washing machines for all cleaning requirements in the paint and ink producing industry, together with energy-efficient solvent distillation units.

Laminating & Spot UV & UV Varnishing

AUTOBOND – World leaders in thermal and waterbased laminators, multi-purpose machiney, UV and spot UV.

D&K EUROPE – High quality thermal laminating equipment.

Laminating Film Supplies

Wide range of laminating films for offset and digital, high quality high tack bopp and PET films, glueable, stampable, printable.

Breen Printing attracts new generations to the industry

After its recent 50th anniversary celebrations, Breen Printing shares its plan for the future, and passion to focus on training and apprenticeships

Breen Printing recently turned 50, with the company celebrating the milestone at the Healesville Amateur Race Club, where friends, family and VIPs who have supported the business on its incredible journey shared in the festivities.

“We’d like to thank all of those who celebrated with us. The weather was perfect, the company was friendly, and the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all,” Breen Printing joint managing director Kirsty Woodhead said, acknowledging the Healesville-based company’s two generations of owners, including Peter Breen, involved from 2 April 1973 and Derek and Merinda Jones, involved from 1 July 1987.

Kirsty and Luke Woodhead have been managing the company since 1 July 2020, and were joint winners in the Printer 50 category of the ProPrint Awards last year.

Among the guests were Lindsay Banks who has been involved with Breen Printing over the three generations; Chris Gander who has helped the company employ three key staff in recent years; Tim Mahoney from Spicers, Jane and Chris

Jackson from Ball & Doggett and Peter Broman who trained Kirsty as an apprentice 23 years ago.

Not surprisingly, Kirsty is passionate about employing and nurturing apprentices at Breen Printing as they enter the industry.

“I have a background in education. I was teaching for a couple of years, and one reason that I was drawn to teaching is because I did my apprenticeship in prepress when I was 18, and I found that I was flourishing in an encouraging learning environment at RMIT Brunswick – led by Robert Black at the time. When I finished my apprenticeship, I wanted to continue to teach and attract new generations to a growing industry,” she explained.

“Breen provides a great environment for learning, and it is inspiring to have the LIA’s Lindsay Banks advocating for us – he always states 'they breed them well at Breen'. Lindsay played a supportive role when I was nominated for the LIA Graduate of the Year in 2004, and again last year for Jacinta Allen when she was awarded as the 2022 runner up,” she said, explaining that the company has

employed a lot of apprentices in the prepress space over the years as she and Luke believe that it is a beneficial environment for people to upskill and an important way of introducing new generations to the printing industry.

“We've had five apprentices in our workplace, and most recently we employed our first printing apprentice, who started in December. Hiring apprentices and graduates has become a big part of who we are, we like to give young people the opportunity to learn more, develop new skills and knowledge, to see them grow. We truly enjoy supporting our team,” she said.

“Being a family business, it is sometimes challenging to separate work from home, and not to let work issues consume us. On the bright side, it is nice that we can involve our two young daughters Yasmyn and Aliesha, aged 13 and 7 respectively, and integrate them into the business, just as Kirsty was involved in the business when she was a child,” Luke said.

Expansion is important to every thriving company and is something that is hot on

Breen Printing’s list of goals – this extends to machinery, people, and premises.

Breen Printing recently purchased an Eykon 2513 FB UV LED flatbed printer from Agfa, which allows the company to widen its packaging and signage range, and experiment with new products including short run digital packaging solutions. The flatbed sits alongside a JWEI IT6000 cutting machine for labels and packaging as well as a Konica Minolta C6100 digital press, individually purchased in June and September of 2021.

In recent years, the company has installed solar panels and a diesel generator, necessary for a business in the Healesville area where outages are frequent.

Luke said Breen Printing is also hoping to purchase another block of land in the same street of its current location.

“Since purchasing the flatbed we are bursting at the seams – it’s taking up the last bit of our remaining floor space, and it’s pushing our power limitations right up to the edge,” he said.

In addition, a customer service role has

become available at the company, due to a team member’s promotion.

“It is an attractive option for someone in the local community to join our team. People love working at Breen and there is a common longevity here, plus it provides a good work-life balance,” Kirsty said, adding that she enjoys providing a nurturing environment for staff in the stunning location where the company is based.

“We're always supportive and provide the space that allows people to grow. If they get to a point where they feel like they’ve reached their limit, we do all that we can to help them grow and work with the skills that they have.”

Luke explained that since Breen Printing is a small business, it deploys a flat management structure where supervision and management is unnecessary.

“Basically, we give everyone the tools they need and the decision-making abilities to be able to manage their own workload and their own jobs autonomously, which gives them ownership and connection to the business and their individual positions,” he said.

“The only time that we intervene is if there’s problem to be solved or if we are setting a priority, but other than that everyone has the freedom to make their own decisions. We are confident that our team has the knowledge and understanding of what's expected to be able to make the right choices and decisions, and that they support each other.

“Naturally we must be selective about the people we choose. We want to ensure that we get the right person to complement the company’s dynamic and maintain the same morale. It’s no good choosing someone that's perfect on paper and has all the skills and knowledge but the wrong attitude and doesn’t fit in.”

A long-term goal that the couple is focusing on is to advocate for the next generation of apprentices and to investigate the options that are available to make this happen.

“We’d like to help the PVCA and get behind the industry, become a voice for small businesses and help support other businesses in bringing young people into the industry,” Kirsty said, adding that she would also like to get the schools involved.

On the company’s 50th birthday celebrations, the couple stated how proud they are to be the third generation running Breen Printing and to be celebrating such a significant milestone with amazing people.

“Breen Printing is a great little business with huge potential. I’m proud of what our team has achieved in the short time we’ve held the reins and I’m excited about what Breen Printing will become in the future,” Luke said.

“We can’t wait to see where this part of the journey takes us. Cheers to you and the next 50 years!” Kirsty added, to all the guests and supporters, in closing.

EVENT

EcoPrint Summit: The Future of Sustainable Printing

LabelExpo Europe 2023

Foodtech Packtech 2023

Printing United 2023

FESPA Australia Conference

ProPrint Awards

LOCATION

Geneva, Switzerland

Brussels, Belguim

Auckland, NZ

Atlanta, USA

Sydney

Sydney

DATE

6 - 7 June

11 - 14 September

19 - 21 September

18 -20 October

3 November

3 November

Hosting an event? Send an email to the editor Colleen Bate cbate@intermedia.com.au with the details

•

Visual Impact Sydney achieves show success

Visual Impact Sydney achieved success this year, attracting the highest numbers of visitors since the mid-2010s

‘Try-A-Trade’ focused education and recruitment initiative, attended by around 100 year 10 to 12 students.

The path ahead for these students was illustrated by the presentation of the LIA Graduate of the Year Awards, which saw the winner, Angus McGrath from Note Printing Victoria, win the $10,000 Visual Connections/LIA scholarship, while Multicolor Queensland’s Bradley Powell took out the Ball & Doggett $5,000 Future Leader Award.

The show started on a high note with a smoking ceremony and official welcome by the Gawura Cultural Immersions group at the entry to Halls 5 and 6 of the Sydney Showgrounds.

Inside Visual Impact, visitors saw all the latest innovations in systems, equipment, software, media, consumables and services for the diverse and exciting sector.

Here are some of the highlights of the fourday show:

BALL & DOGGETT

Ball & Doggett showcased a range of solutions, especially from HP and Roland, as the company bolsters its play in hardware following its Conect Enterprises acquisition.

Just a few short of 4,000 people were clocked through the doors of the Visual Impact Sydney expo, with 936 of those from exhibitor teams. Numbers were fairly even across the three days, with just under 1,000 people attending on Day 1 – many of them queuing to get in as soon as doors opened – just over 1,000 on Day 2, and more than 900 people taking the opportunity to attend on the final, shorter day.

Some exhibitors, including Wilenco and Mutoh, reported selling all machines on their stands… and more.

Numerous product and technical experts from overseas manufacturers and local dealers also took the opportunity to share their knowledge and provide additional options to visitors. This was complemented by a program of seminars which ranged from specialist advice on

finance and skilled migration visas, to industry insights and tips from the experts.

New initiatives, like the Photo & Fine Art Exhibition, Photography Workshop and Channel Lettering Workshops were also well-received, not only creating interest for visitors, but helping to draw a wider and more diverse group of visitors to the show, according to the show’s organiser Visual Connections.

The Australian Sign & Graphic Association (ASGA) launched an innovative initiative known as the Sign Service Centre, conceptualised to serve as a hub for smaller suppliers that would prefer to present their offerings without having to commit to the purchase of exhibition space for the entire duration of the event.

The ASGA, together with Visual Connections, also saw the relaunch of the

At Visual Impact, the company’s sign, display and digital general manager Rob Brussolo took ProPrint on a tour of the stand where the new Roland TrueVIS AP-640 resin machine was on show.

In addition, the HP 700 W large format printer also took centre stage at Ball & Doggett’s stand. Brussolo also showed ProPrint the latest cast film from Metamark, the MetaCast MCX which recently launched in May.

A highlight on the stand was the purchase of a HP Latex R2000 supplied by Ball & Doggett by Victoria-based signage and installation company Printflex. The deal was finalised the show.

CMYKHUB

“The team at CMYKhub enjoyed a steady stream of visitors at our stand over the three days. We enjoyed catching up with several existing trade partners and

meeting new ones outside of their busy workdays. We were overwhelmed by the support for our pending roll label launch with sample pack requests at the show. This has been reflected in an encouraging product launch last week, with several orders placed already, as well as hundreds of quotes completed, and sample packs distributed nationally,” CMYKhub national communications manager Glen Francis said, adding that Visual Impact was also a fantastic opportunity to share the company’s low-cost subscription prepress and graphic design service, Design Desk.

“We found the signage industry particularly engaged with our solution to provide them more time to focus on production and installation rather than creating the artwork. The ability to re-create low resolution images for them to print at large scale was a feature they highlighted as key for their business.”

EPSON

Epson’s theme at Visual Impact 2023 was, “Relax, you are in good hands” as it demonstrated consistent quality imaging across a range of different media types and showed a sample of its new SC-F2260 direct-to-garment (DTG) and direct-to-film (DTF) printer. The printer is expected to ship in July and features a host of upgrades that make it faster and more efficient while also enhancing support for increasingly popular DTF production workflow.

Epson Australia marketing manager

Priscilla Dickason said, “You’re in good hands because we have everything you need regarding digital signage, DTG, DTF and much more. The main objective is to showcase everything that Epson products can do. We moved a little bit away from our normal corporate theme. The first thing you saw when entering the show floor was our beautiful lion print with the Epson logo. There was a lot of colour on the stand to stand out from the crowd. It all came together to show the breadth of products that Epson offers and its wide range of applications.”

HP

HP secured commitment on all printers showcased at the HP Beyond Expectations stand. In addition, the company confirmed several commitments from its valued channel partners, who also invested in HP’s presence at the event, and delivered countless printer demonstrations.

Visual Impact was HP’s first public viewing in Australia of the HP L2700 3.2 latex printer, which generated a lot of interest and excitement among visitors, customers and channel partners.

Reflecting on Visual Impact 2023, HP Australia country manager of large format print Craig Hardman said, “We

VISUAL IMPACT SYDNEY 2023

are extremely happy with the success of Visual Impact in Sydney. The event was a huge hit and met all the expectations we had, with a lot of interest in the technology we had on show at the HP Beyond Expectations stand”.

JETMARK

Jetmark showcased the Colorjet Verve flatbed printer capable of printing on any rigid surface, including ACP, foam board, flute board, glass, ceramic tiles, and more, reliably and cost-effectively. The company also featured its Ultimate Digital Bulk Ink System, including new Eco and Eco 2 inks and promoted the Zed7 range of premium print, laminate, and glass etch films, Cover Styl architectural vinyl and Solar Screen high-performance window films.

KISSEL & WOLF

Kissel & Wolf showcased the high-volume Mutoh STS Direct to Film (DTF) printer with the Pronto Plus Series system on the Mutoh stand at Visual Impact Sydney.

Kissel & Wolf digital sales manager Andrew Marrs explained that the technology is new and started to emerge in “a pretty big way” last year, and that the STS DTF printer and Pronto Plus Series system was introduced to the Australian market at the beginning of this year.

“We already had an existing partnership with Mutoh, so when we found out that

Mutoh was running its own version of the STS system, we realised that we have a product that we can get to market through a partnership with them,” he said.

POZITIVE

Pozitive showcased swissQprint’s latest Nyala technology at Visual Impact Sydney.

Pozitive managing director Phil Trumble said the 3.2m by 2m flatbed printer is one of the most versatile machines in the market.

“It has won best printer in its class in Europe for the last eight years running. The reason is because not only can you print flat sheets, you can also print flat cut sheets using our pin system, with multiple lay positions,” he said.

The swissQprint Nyala press delivers on many benefits with its cutting-edge print head technology and the high-precision droplet placement perfected by swissQprint. For example, the Nyala 4 achieves a maximum resolution of 1,350dpi, with an output of up to 206 m2/h.

PRINTIQ

Australian software businesses printIQ saw “lots of activity” on its stand at Visual Impact Sydney over the three days of the tradeshow. The company’s sales manager Justin Webber said printIQ has been in the

business of empowering printers for more than two decades, and doesn’t have plans to slow down any time soon.

The business is unique in that it updates its software several times a year following customer feedback and recommendations, and is passionate about continually developing products that empower printers to overcome any obstacle they may face, and believes that its technology is the key part of that success.

SMARTECH

“Visual Impact Sydney was an aweinspiring event that left over 400 attendees captivated and inspired at the Smartech stand by the incredible showcase of innovation and technology in large format and print finishing Solutions,” Smartech graphics design manager Ximena Guzman said, confirming that the HP Z9 PRO and HP Latex 700w were star attractions on the stand and garnered significant attention with their exceptional print quality and versatility.

“Visitors were impressed by the stunning colours, sharp details, and seamless performance of these advanced largeformat printers. Furthermore, the Aristo TL 1925 cutting solution demonstrated precision and efficiency, captivating audiences with its ability to seamlessly

handle intricate designs and produce flawless results,” she said.

Guzman explained that the point of difference at the show was showcasing print finishing equipment, which highlighted Smartech’s commitment to excellent service nationwide.  “The OKI Pro1050 and Graphtec DLC1000 solutions offers a complete label printing and cutting system for those looking to bring label production in-house. Additionally, our Parcel Locker Solutions generated considerable interest, providing a convenient 24/7 click and collect service to enhance the customer experience,” she added.

STARLEATON

Kwik Kopy Miller Street, Sydney purchased the first Canon Colorado M in Australia, finalised at the Starleaton stand, where the Canon Colorado M5W large-format (1.6m) roll-to-roll UVgel printer with white ink option, made its local debut.

In addition, Starleaton displayed a wide range of systems, equipment and media,

and featured a host of sustainable solutions that represent ‘world’s best practice’ in advanced manufacturing, waste reduction and recyclability.

This included Neschen laminating machines, imaging devices including the Canon Colorado and Epson wide-format printers, and Zünd cutting systems and software for cutting, routing and engraving.

Also included in the range of solutions demonstrated at the show were the Epson SureColor R5000 64-inch resin printer featuring the new Epson UltraChrome RS ink and the 76-inch Epson SureColor F10060 dye-sublimation, as well as the Neenah Coldenhove transfer paper for dyesublimation transfer printing, demonstrated in action on the Epson F10060 printer.

SPICERS

RollsRoller founder Göran Johansson flew to Visual Impact Sydney 2023 from Sweden to give exclusive demos of his equipment on the Spicers stand, where Queensland-based Storm Signage finalised the purchase of a RollsRoller

Flatbed Applicator 340, supplied by Spicers Australia.

A focus of the Spicers stand was its new edition Evolution in Grip range suitable for window, wall and floor applications, which offers more sustainable solutions and includes brands such as 3M, General Formulations, Phototex, Kavalan, Bauhaus, Rocal , Yupo and Digitac (see page 32 for more info on this).

VELFLEX

Velflex exhibited a wide range of products for single and full-colour heat transfers, including Stahls' Hotronix presses and DTF machines.

Velfex managing director Ben Carroll said, “This is the first Australianengineered and designed DTF sheet-fed purpose-built machine. It’s designed and made by Impression Technology here in Frenchs Forest”.

Visitors to the Velflex stand were shown the benefits and differences between printing detailed transfers on intermittent sheet printers and continuous roll-to-roll technologies.

Carroll also hosted a seminar at the show themed of “Expand your offering with heat transfer”.

In conclusion, Visual Connections CEO Peter Harper said exhibitors were delighted with the attendance at the show this year, which was up 10 per cent on the last Sydney show in 2018, and up more than 20 per cent on the 2017 iteration.

For Harper and the Visual Connections team, however, the moment to bask in the success of one show is short – they are now already turning their sights to the next industry expo, Visual Impact Brisbane, which will run from 17 to 19 July 2024.

Spicers debuts new series of Evolution in Grip at Visual Impact

Spicers' exquisitely designed and printed new Evolution in Grip promotional series created quite a stir on its stand at Visual Impact.

stocks qualities based on their natural physical abilities to survive and adapt in different environments.

“Volume two and the three-part series expands on this and explores different animals in their habitats and environments. It is also a reflection on the expansive range from Spicers,” she said, explaining that the printed samples and folder include product descriptions, adhesive type, durability, matching overlaminates and recommended applications.

Not only were visitors drawn to the promotional packs, but a portion of the stand was themed around the new series, which clearly draws inspiration from nature.

“Evolution in Grip made its debut at Visual Impact, which was well received from visitors who were impressed by our range. As part of the Spicers stand, we constructed a whole corner display highlighting US-based General Formulations and featured products from the Evolution in Grip promotion. This was a fantastic display that showcased a range of products applied to windows, walls, and floors. We were also supported and joined by General Formulations product manager, Jay Kroll, who gave visitors the opportunity to ask questions and provide backing from a supplier’s point of view,” Spicers marketing and design manager, Cyndi Setia said.

Created for the company's print/wide format customers and specifiers/ designers the versatile adhesive and filmbased visual series, made up of many different brands across Spicers Visual Communications range, is both educational and resourceful.

Setia explains that Evolution in Grip not only includes technical specifications geared towards print customers, where they can test products by applying to different surfaces but is also appealing to designers due to the beautiful illustrations.

“Due to the success of the first edition of Evolution in Grip which was released in 2017 and was based on our Digitac range, we decided to create a new addition that included all the great brands from our Visual Communications portfolio which

were suitable for window, wall and floor applications. Just in the last couple of years, our range had expanded and included more sustainable solutions to meet market demand. The packs now include brands such as 3M, General Formulations, Phototex, Kavalan, Bauhaus, Rocal, Yupo and Digitac,” she said, pointing out that the concept behind the new series, which is perfectly adapted for every surface.

The new Evolution in Grip series includes printed samples of solutions for window, wall and floor applications featuring durability, ink compatibility and sustainable options, as well as product inserts with reference guides which portray the versatility within the Spicers portfolio – all conveniently assembled in a presentation folder.

Spicers can supply media for aqueous, eco-solvent, UV curable, Latex and LED ink technologies and the series highlights this, carrying all print media essentials required as well as a fine collection of specialty products to suit any creative visual communications project.

THREE-PART SERIES INSPIRED BY NATURE

Evolution in Grip is a three-part series, featuring animals from different habitats, Savanna (innovative and durable floor vinyls), Oceanic (window graphic solutions) and Tropics (wall graphic solutions), and mimics this evolution with a diverse range of unique visual communications solutions,” explained Setia.

CREATIVE CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

Setia said that Evolution in Grip's new creative concept and development continued from the first volume – imagery of specific animals were chosen to reflect

Spicers internal marketing team developed the Evolution in Grip product range and design concept, which started early this year, and managed print production with its customers. The final piece was delivered in late April.

The Spicers team involved in the design and concept of the new Evolution in Grip series consisted of marketing co-ordinator Taylor O’Neill, graphic designer Sarah McMillan and marketing & design manager Cyndi Setia. They worked alongside Spicers visual communications portfolio manager, Wayne Hood to form the range for each pack.

The Evolution in Grip series is now available through your local Spicers representative.

On the move at Visual Impact Sydney

Look who we spotted while roaming the aisles at Visual Impact in Sydney, where visitors and exhibitors contributed to its success – it attracted the highest number of visitors since the mid-2010s, with almost 4,000 industry businesses in attendance and millions of dollars of business transacted over the three-day event.

Angus McGrath wins Visual Connections/LIA scholarship

The Graduate of the Year and Future Leaders Award winners were announced at a well-attended cocktail event at Visual Impact, hosted by the Visual Connections and the Lithographic Institute of Australia (LIA).

Note Printing Victoria graduate printer Angus McGrath won a $10,000 Visual Connections/ Lithographic Institute of Australia (LIA) scholarship after being named Graduate of the Year while Multicolor Queensland’s Bradley Powell (2023 state winner from Queensland) was announced the winner of Ball & Doggett’s Future Leaders Award and received a $5,000 voucher.

Apart from McGrath and Powell, the other finalists were Jervis Tsui, Frontline Print; Martin Grogan, PSI Screenprinting; Nicole Jesenko, TAFE SA; Christine Gardiner,

Studio Labels; Paul Plunkett, Pakaflex and Syed Ahamed, Orora Group, WA.

LIA federal president Mel Ireland welcomed guests to the event, confirming that the volunteer organisation has been around for 65 years. She acknowledged the traditional owners of the land, and thanked the committee, sponsors (Visual Connections, Heidelberg and Ball & Doggett), and judges for their support.

Heidelberg, she said, deserved a special mention as a company that has continued to support apprentices for many years,

before introducing Heidelberg national sales manager Dierk Wissmann to the podium, followed by Ball & Doggett national marketing manager Tony Bertrand and Starleaton’s Ben Eaton –who is also VP at Visual Connections. The speakers thanked the LIA, encouraged the industry to get involved and congratulated the winners.

The LIA Associate Fellowship awards were also announced by Ireland on the night, which went to Andrew Reynolds and Gordon Wilson, both from South Australia.

Women in Print Breakfast Series

Danielle Dobson, a renowned speaker, author, facilitator, and mother, was the keynote speaker for the prestigious national 2023 Women in Print Breakfast Series. Her engaging presentation centred around her acclaimed book titled 'Breaking the Gender Code'.

Durst wins acclaim from Antipodean visitors for pre-FESPA European tour

Visitors to Durst’s factory in Brixen, Italy pre-FESPA were initiated into the defining qualities of a ‘Durst’ler’ as they toured the company’s magnificent premises and witnessed first-hand how digital printing systems are built from the ground up.

Iwas fortunate to be part of this throng of industry players who came away impressed by the processes and interactions of this ever-evolving institution that puts perfection and people at its core.

Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman defines the term ‘Durst’ler’ as “a great attitude and a desire to work with Durst and our customers”, and as we spent two days with him as our host, accompanied by Durst Oceania sales manager, large format print and textiles, Julian Lowe, we came to understand the expression first-hand.

The tour is standard practice which the company bestows on visitors, not only to immerse them fully into the Durst experience, but also to lay on lavish hospitality. In our case, we enjoyed a myriad of memorable experiences extending across Italy and Austria, before going on to Munich where FESPA 2023 was held.

BRIXEN FACTORY TOUR

Third-generation family business Durst is a leading manufacturer of industrial digital printing machines in the fields of large format, label, textile, ceramic and packaging printing. The company, which started in 1929, develops its products

entirely in-house, manufactures them at its headquarters in Brixen and Lienz, and then sells them to customers all over the world.

Durst also offers software including backoffice enterprise resource planning, digital workflows and B2B/B2C online store front solutions and owns several other companies, including Alupress, a producer of high-grade aluminium.

Durst Group is majority owned by the Oberrauch family with CEO Christoph Gamper who is a co-owner.

On our tour of the sleek and striking

spaces of the Brixen location, we were taken through Durst’s Kraftwerk, the company’s in-house spin-offs and startups incubator which opened last year, born out of the need to give the company’s 2020 acquisition of US Vanguard Digital Systems, manufacturer of digital printing systems for signage, decor, corporate, industrial and packaging sectors, a home in Europe.

We were told that Vanguard Europe’s next-generation UV flatbed printer, the VK3220T-HS, would be unveiled at FESPA Munich.

Then it was on to Durst’s gallery of history, where we saw examples of Durst’s past technology, before being led to the factory floor where the company’s engineers were building machines from the ground up. The huge industrial CNC machines, which allow popular choice for printers to pick and choose what they want to add to the core unit, are built on site at Durst to ensure that every part of fabrication and manufacture are controlled by engineers.

We then moved on to the Customer Experience Centre where one of the technology highlights was the P5 350 HSR – a 3.5m LED roll-to-roll model that achieves print speeds up to 670 square metres per hour and was launched at FESPA Munich.

It was incredible to see the range of ceramic tiles samples on display too – these are the products of the industrial digital ceramic tile printing systems Durst GAMMA.

EXCURSIONS AND EXPERIENCES

As well as an extensive tour of the Durst premises, we were provided with comfortable contemporary

FUN FACT

Durst is a world leader in the digital decoration of ceramic tiles. This demanding industrial sector has led Durst to innovate in ensuring maximum uptime, as ceramic production lines simply can’t be shut down. This innovation feeds into all other sectors of the business, meaning all Durst printers regardless of sector, are designed for maximum uptime.

accommodation, exquisite meals and experienced a walking tour of the city, followed by the Durst-sponsored Watertight Festival. A visit to the Bergisel Olympic ski jump in Innsbruck and dinner at the historic 400-year-old Auracher Löchl in Kufstein, with its secret cave bar, on the way back to Munich ended the two-day excursion on a high note.

And the camaraderie didn’t end there –throughout the four days of FESPA, when we bumped into each other, we felt a closeness and a kind of ‘Durst’ler’ connection.

TESTIMONIALS FROM THE GROUP

When asked about the two-day Durst experience, this was what each ‘tour member’ had to say:

Blair Signs and Print’s Aaron Grigg: “The whole experience in itself was amazing. It was great meeting like-minded people in the industry and just to see the technology and innovation and how Durst produces its machines was incredible. I'm still digesting it all.”

Vivad's Ewan Donaldson:

“It was like we had found the golden tickets to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, except better, as this was Durst’s factory.

“If you are going to go on a tour, then what better way than to hang out with likeminded people who share a love of all things large format. What better place to be than at the forefront of large format digital print technology, with the aroma of freshly cured UV ink against the background of snow-capped peaks of the Northern Italian Alps.

“Matt, Julian and the team from Durst were the most hospitable hosts you could imagine; we were wined and dined, shown the sites and treated like royalty.

“The highlight of the trip was the tour of the Durst factory where we witnessed the making of the world’s finest quality printers. How we drooled over the latest models and salivated at the speed and quality of their respective output.

“I had to refrain from channelling my inner Veruca Salt, 'I want an Oompa Loompa daddy, I want one now!'

“We laughed, we cried, and we shared the moments over a Hugo or two, which is a local cocktail of the region, and then it was time to return to the Bavarian capital for the main event being FESPA.

DURST PRE-FESPA TOUR

“Thank you to my travelling companions and newfound friends, thank you Matt and Julian and thank you Durst – your magenta’s worth bottling.”

Colourtech's Alasdair and Kim Wilson “Colourtech has been using Durst’s services for over 15 years. Its print machines are very reliable but if there are issues, support is readily available instantly, which is very important for any business production.

“Matt, Julian and Durst were great hosts in Brixen with attention to detail in regard to our accommodation, local tours of the townships, amazing dinner experiences –nothing was ever too much trouble.

“The factory tour was a great reflection of what a great company Durst is. This was particularly helpful for us since we live on the other side of the world.

“Matt arranged for Alasdair and me to arrive a day earlier in Brixen – Mauritz from Hotel Pupp, where we stayed, looked after us until the group arrived, and the hotel itself was second to none.

“The tour of Durst Brixen is a wonderful experience and a great insight into how small and medium sized businesses are integral in local economies – European companies are leaders of the world in this regard, it is an honour for Colourtech to be involved with such a great company as Durst.

“The employees were happy, engaged and more than willing to answer any questions we had – adding to the wonderful experience.

“We look forward to continuing our relationship with Durst long into the future – 10/10 Mr Ashman!”

IVE's Bianca Martin:

“A new and shiny relationship with Durst really kickstarted when I joined the board of FESPA Australia. We have also recently commissioned a new P5 which is operating in our soft signage factory at IVE.

“The factory itself was absolutely mind blowing – I was like a kid in a candy store and came away with a highly valued sample kit and a huge smile on

my face. The precision that is displayed from the fabrication of parts through to the assembly onsite and seeing the supporting software is such an impressive sight to see and gives one such a strong level of assurance and awe. I can see why Durst is regarded as one of the premier suppliers in the wide format development space.

“The whole experience that Matt facilitated was fantastic with a real taste of the town coming through. The two days were definitely a highlight of my trip.

“The people we had on the trip were just legendary – special thanks to Matt, Julian, and Kai.”

Carr Group's Kai Hennig:

“As a supplier of wide and grand format print media, we ensure our substrates run well on our customers’ print equipment. A large portion of our print partners run Durst kit, so it makes sense to stay up to date with the latest technologies that Durst has on offer. What better way than to go on the factory tour and visit the customer

centre.”

Carr Group's John Carr:

“A visit to Durst is so much more than a factory visit. Matt and Julian did an outstanding job in immersing us in the culture of Durst and where they’re located. It’s easy to see why their customers are so positive about their journey with Durst.”

Ancyn Screen and Digital Printers’ Mark Brooks:

“I couldn't imagine a better start to FESPA. The group, which started out as strangers, got along really well and we’ve become friends because of the experience we shared. Matt and Julian were brilliant hosts and it was amazing to visit the Durst factory and see the machines in operation, and how they are built. The professionalism, the engineering and the work that goes behind the machines is incredible and you can see the pride in all the workers at Durst. The building is sensational, the architecture is completely unique and the surrounding views are stunning. ”

M-Power's Ambrin Naaz Begum:

“From the moment I stepped into the Durst facility, I was captivated by the seamless fusion of innovation and precision. The state-of-the-art machinery and cuttingedge technologies developed by Durst are truly awe-inspiring. Witnessing their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of digital printing reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of technology.

“What impressed me even more than the incredible technology was the remarkable team behind it all. The dedication, expertise, and passion exhibited by every member of the Durst team were truly exceptional. It was evident that they had a genuine love for what they do. I loved engaging with the team, exchanging insights, and learning from their wealth of knowledge. Their willingness to share their expertise and their enthusiasm in discussing the intricacies of digital printing was truly inspiring.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to the entire Durst team for their warm welcome and for providing me with such an enriching experience. In particular, Matt and Julian – their openness, generosity, and commitment to excellence were evident in every aspect of my visit. I am truly honored to have been given the opportunity to witness firsthand the brilliance behind Durst's operations.

“I am sincerely grateful to the entire Durst team for their hospitality, expertise, and the opportunity they provided for me to be a guest at this organisation.”

As for me, while I observed the interactions and enjoyed all the experiences, I came away somehow changed with the intrinsic realisation that we all thrive and flourish when there is

shared connection, commonality, learning and inspiration. I will be forever grateful for the experience. Thank you, Matt, Julian, Durst and the group!

Also said by Ashman is that being a ‘Durst-ler’ is “a phrase that we extend to our customers” and after this unforgettable experience, we were all made to feel as if we truly were part of the existing dynamic and hard-working ‘Durst’ler’ family and community.

Durst to attract new local customers with new P5 350 HSR

Durst believes the new P5 350 HSR, recently unveiled at FESPA Munich, will introduce a completely new set of customers to its brand.

The new P5 350 HSR is a 3.5m LED roll-toroll model that achieves print speeds up to 670 square metres per hour and can be equipped with an optional master roll. This can feed rolls weighing up to 1,000kg and 635mm in diameter, enabling long production cycles without interruption.

“The P5 350 HSR model is what the market has been asking for – and now we have delivered,” Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman said.

“Based on the extraordinary reaction to

the launch of this machine, it will definitely bring new Durst customers to the family because it will incorporate X-Y trimming as well as back printing of posters.

“The fact that you can load one tonne of media on to the machine and run it

FESPA Munich: Durst P5 Robotics concept mesmerises visitors

The introduction of an unmanned robotic system on the Durst stand stole the show in terms of visitor engagement and interest at FESPA.

In a move that was not known to many people within the company, let alone the industry, the unveiling of the Durst P5 Robotics concept followed a year of research and development.

The metronomically mesmerising robotic performance was the most photographed and videoed area at the FESPA 2023 exhibition as printers weighed up and openly debated the potential benefits of the investment that would be required to duplicate the dual-robot prototype concept demonstrated.

There were mixed reviews among printers interviewed by ProPrint about the potential return on investment.

Some printers were very enthusiastic and said the P5 Robotics concept was “cheap” when the cost was revealed while others did not believe the concept suited their business.

According to Durst, the decision to introduce the P5 Robotics concept was the logical next step following the introduction of the P5 Automat – the company’s automated feeder/stacker system for flatbed printing.

“Durst is igniting the next stage of automation with P5 Robotics for flexible and continuous production cycles with long run times,” the company said in a statement.

“At the heart of the P5 Robotics is the flagship P5 350 HS D4 hybrid printing system, whose feeder/stacker unit is formed by two Kuka robots to handle the unmanned production of a complete shift.

“The robots, modified and programmed by Durst, can pick up media from different

unattended overnight also adds significant value and versatility.

“Importantly, for the Australian industry where mesh printing is so prevalent, the new P5 350 HSR has a built-in mesh kit which is an absolute game-changer for local large format printers. This feature provides the ability to switch from banner or poster paper directly to mesh printing and our ink collection system keeps the machine clean while also offering completely attended operation.”

pallets with a height of up to 180cm, feed them and then stack them again separately. In the process, the printed media can also be turned 180-degrees for reverse-side printing and fed into a second printing system. P5 Robotics can also be expanded with third party solutions or finishing systems.”

One of the Durst project leaders Reinhard Schneeberger said the prototype concept was demonstrating 1.2m x 1.6m and 50cm x 70cm sheet sizes, but other size configurations were available with different gripping modules. It is expected that the company will manage the P5 Robotics division from its facility in Lienz.

“The reaction has been very strong and we have a lot of leads from customers that are impressed with this system and now we have to follow-up with them after the exhibition,” Schneeberger said.

Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman said he believes this is a “gamechanging technology”.

“What is required is high speed robotics and precision robotics. Just like a Durst P5 350 HS D4 – we need high speed robotics to keep up with a machine that delivers high productivity,” he said.

“When you are printing at 700 square metres an hour – most normal robotics don’t keep up – but ours do. We are already talking to cutter suppliers to make the robots feed directly into cutting solutions and then you will end up with a finished cut stack – and this is the holy grail. Lights out.”

PRODUCTION EXCELLENCE

The next level of automation. P5 ROBOTICS

For more information, please visit durst-group.com/p5robotics

Vanguard Europe unveils next gen UV flatbed printer at FESPA

Using up to three rows of the 4 picoliter drop size Kyocera print heads at up to 1800 dpi print resolution, the Vanguard VK3220T-HS runs at up to 360 square metres an hour. It is also a printer that can grow and scale in line with customer requirements.

Vanguard Europe managing director Fabian Sottsas said, “We are incredibly excited to be at FESPA for this world launch of the Vanguard VK3220T-HS nextgeneration UV flatbed printer.

“Together with a new modular design with user-friendly design changes that are more intuitive, ergonomic, and optimised for the operator, we know this will be of huge interest to visitors at the show.

Vanguard Europe unveiled its nextgeneration UV flatbed printer, the VK3220T-HS, at FESPA.

In its first public showing, the machine took centre stage at the Vanguard booth alongside Durst. Showgoers were invited to see live production of the machine in Hall A2, Stand A10.

This launch also marked the official introduction of a new compact, userfriendly product design for the Vanguard Europe portfolio.

The changes – a result of a collaboration with multi-award-winning Zanzotti

Industrial Design, which is also behind the design of the Durst portfolio – aimed to bring a more intuitive, ergonomic, and optimised experience for machine operators.

The new Vanguard VK3220T-HS was designed and assembled at the European headquarters of Vanguard Europe in Brixen, Italy, next to the global HQ of Durst.

A 3.2m by 2m flatbed printer, the VK3220T-HS becomes part of Vanguard Europe’s growing portfolio of printers serving all customers in markets covering the industrial flatbed and roll-to-roll printer spectrum with high-performance needs.

Mezographic purchases first Durst P5 350 HS D4 with full automation at FESPA

Victorian-based printer Mezographic has purchased a Durst P5 350 HS D4 with full automation – the first of its kind in Australia.

Mezographic owner Frank Mezo told ProPrint that the key to this purchase was its automation as it will be paired with a cutting solution that also provides automation from pallet to pallet.

“We will be able to take a pallet of paper, print it, stack it, then cut it and stack it and take it to our packing team without human hands touching it,” he said.

Mezo said he started looking into another Durst P5 at FESPA 2022 and confirmed the purchase on the Durst stand at FESPA 2023 in Munich.

“This is an ideal workhorse for a lot of our large volume print work for retailers through print management

“Our strategy to become market leader will only happen through growing profitable business together in partnership with our customers.”

Vanguard Europe is a subsidiary of Vanguard Digital Printing Systems Corp, based in Georgia, US.Set up in late 2021, Vanguard Europe’s objective is to replicate the sales successes of its parent company, which produces 200 systems a year.

The company said this is being achieved by utilising the global expertise of its resellers, distributors and other partners. Vanguard’s industrial printing flatbed and roll-to-roll systems are used in markets including signage, decoration, business equipment, industry and packaging.

organisations,” Mezo explained.

“First and foremost, I purchase Durst machines due to their reliability. I already have three Durst systems – and this will be the fourth. We had the first Durst P5 in Australia and we also have a 512 and a 312.

“We always move forward with what we buy – and we look for efficiencies –especially things like automation. We have recently purchased the factory next door that has given us extra room to expand.”

Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman confirmed that this will be the first Durst P5 350 HS D4 with full automation to land in Australia and will be arriving imminently in Melbourne.

“It is an honour to be able to supply Frank with a fourth machine. Frank has always been such a fantastic supporter of Durst. He identified that this solution delivers what he needs for his business, and he really works the machines to their full potential, which is what we love,” Ashman said.

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P5 350/HS

The hybrid printer that elevates the efficiency in your production cycle.

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Fujifilm debuts $8 million Barberan HS6000 single pass inkjet

“It is a very exciting moment when you walk into the print shop and you see a printer of this scale.”

After working in the printing industry for 38 years, Burton said this is “the biggest deal” of his professional life.

“Many years ago, I used to sell Onsets and I used to flinch when I had to tell customers they were one million pounds – and this is a bit more of a challenge. It is really exciting towards the end of your career to get a chance to work with an absolute zenith of print development.

“This is the most expensive printer I have ever sold, but its cost is the ROI. If you are at this end of investment, the invoice is one issue but the ROI is the relevant topic.

“We are ready to go – and in September and October we will be putting people in place to close the deals.

Fujifilm unveiled the most expensive inkjet product on the market with the launch of the HS6000 at FESPA Munich.

Industry estimates place the price of the product at over €5 million or over A$8 million.

It is expected that the HS6000 will operate at 6000 square metres an hour, consume 30 tonnes of ink annually and measure over 42m in length.

Marketed as being ‘fuelled by Fujifilm’, the HS6000 is not a joint venture with a separate company formed – but a joint development and co-branded between Fujifilm and Spanish company Barberan.

In an exclusive interview with ProPrint, Fujifilm wide format inkjet systems marketing director Dave Burton said he is not exactly sure how much the product will cost, although he has already received interest from prospective buyers.

“We actually don’t know the end user price yet because the machine has almost completed its development so we will be talking to customers in September about the real pricing,” he said.

“We have four customers that have signed letters of intent and we will go through the validation process with them in October and they are located in every corner of the world.

“If you visit Barberan in Barcelona, it is a heavy engineering business with 60 years of experience. The difference between Barberan and digital print manufacturers is its history, its heavy engineering and robust technology. So, the print engine has been developed by the company over 10 years, but it is the fact that the print engine is wrapped in very sophisticated heavy engineering that makes the difference.

“If you look at the product, it is steel at one end, heavy engineering, manufacturing and modification on the fly and it is built as a fit-for-purpose product.

“In conversation with some of our prospective customers, we have been talking about the depreciation of a product like this machine and people have historically looked at offset presses at 15 to 20 years and they have looked at digital presses at around seven years. Where does this fit?

“The psychology when you look at this printer is that it is a heavy duty digital press and we are starting to look at depreciation times that are much longer than traditional digital presses – in the teens – and why wouldn’t they be.

“Maybe this is the first digital press that you don’t need to perceive as a digital press – it is a printing solution in its entirety. It is a solution that happens to use a digital print engine.

“Fujifilm is a technology pioneer and a big corporation while Barberan is a privatelyowned heavy engineering, fast-moving business. The combination of the two is surprisingly effective and it means we can move at pace and we can apply our R&D to elements such as the ink and other processes. It is actually a marriage made in heaven.”

Burton added that because of the strong relationship Fujifilm has across the display graphics world and its pioneering work in driving the industry over the last 25 years, customers have been looking for the next big development – with the HS6000 project being a response to that demand.

Burton does not believe there will ever be a product on an exhibition stand at a trade show.

“It is likely to only be displayed at a Barberan demo site and our view would be that no one is going to buy one off a show floor because the people who are looking for this type of technology are fairly rarefied customers and will do their due diligence for their return on investment,” he said.

“When it comes to the analysis of print processes, Fujifilm know the game because we have been in the print business forever – we are already a resident in the chemicals business, in the offset business, and the plates business –this is our home turf.”

Fujifilm launches Acuity Prime Hybrid printer

Fujifilm showcased the new Acuity Prime Hybrid printer at FESPA 2023 for the first time. Modelled on the highly successful Acuity Prime, the new machine brings additional versatility due to its ability to handle rigid and flexible media.

The new printer is the latest in Fujifilm’s Acuity range – designed from the ground up as part of its new “blueprint for wide format”. All machines in the range were purposely developed to strike the perfect balance between output speed, print quality and price while incorporating intuitive design features for the operator.

When used as a flatbed machine, the Acuity Prime Hybrid can print on substrates up to 2m in width. It can simultaneously print on up to four pieces of rigid media and features registration pins for exact edge-to-edge printing.

The Acuity Prime Hybrid can produce a print at production quality starting from 92 square metres per hour. It also features front and back handling tables to support all media types while facilitating easy media positioning.

The roll-fed configuration can be loaded with two rolls each up to 0.9m wide, and its GreenGuard Gold certified ink makes it suitable for wallpaper production – as well as an extensive range of other applications.

The Acuity Prime Hybrid is set to meet the needs of print service providers who use a wide range of media, including Dibond, foamboard, acrylic, polyester and more.

The machine is available with four colours (CMYK) as standard and uses the same highly pigmented inks that have been used successfully.

A beta model will be installed in the UK in June, with commercial availability scheduled for the end of this year.

Fujifilm wide format inkjet systems director David Burton said, “We have listened to our customers, and we recognise that high functionality and versatility is in demand. In response to our customers and, building on the success of the Acuity Prime flatbed series, we developed the Acuity Prime Hybrid – a cost-effective and robust printer that will maximise productivity across a wide variety of applications.

Fujifilm’s 500 square-metre stand also showcased printers first displayed at FESPA 2022, allowing Fujifilm to highlight technological developments and enhancements made since then, as well as early market success.

The Acuity Prime first revealed to the world at FESPA in Berlin, is a larger version of the Acuity Prime 20 and 30 models, with a 3.2m x 2m flatbed, prints at speeds of 202 square metres per hour.

It is easy to operate and produces highquality results at high speed. It features six vacuum zones and 16 media location pins allowing tandem printing – printing on one side of the bed whilst setting up on the other.

Now with installations in the European market, the Acuity Prime L is commercially available and market proven.

The company also presented more details on its partnership with industrial manufacturer Barberan to bring singlepass inkjet to the sign and display market and hosted Australians attending the event on its stand (see page 54).

Fujifilm hosts drinks for Aussies and Kiwis on-stand at FESPA Munich

Fujifilm invited Australians and New Zealanders attending FESPA Munich to attend an event on its stand on day two of the show, where it provided a tour and refreshments for those in attendance.

The company used the FESPA Munich event to present developments to its existing Acuity models, following the huge success of its ‘New Blueprint for Wide Format’ appearance at FESPA 2022 in Berlin.

Additionally, Fujifilm presented more details on its partnership with industrial manufacturer Barberan to bring singlepass inkjet to the sign and display market.

Here are some pictures from the event:

The new blueprint for wide format

The new blueprint for wide format

The new blueprint for wide format

AS SEEN AT

Stand B10 Hall A1 | 23-26 May 2023 | Messe Munich

A true flatbed with a unique and exceptional design.

Fujifilm showcased the expanding Acuity range at FESPA 2023 with a new printer unveiled at the show and more details revealed of the historic FujifilmBarberan partnership.

A true flatbed with a unique and exceptional design.

Fujifilm to showcase expanding Acuity range at FESPA 2023 with a new printer to be unveiled at the show and more details of historic FujifilmBarberan partnership to be revealed.

The IF Design Award winning Acuity Prime offers high quality printing on a range of rigid and flexible media across five dedicated vacuum zones. Using our Uvijet HM LED UV inks and jettable primer, bold graphics and fine text can be reproduced with variable drop sizes from 7 to 21 picolitres for near photographic quality.

The IF Design Award winning Acuity Prime offers high quality printing on a range of rigid and flexible media across five dedicated vacuum zones. Using our Uvijet HM LED UV inks and jettable primer, bold graphics and fine text can be reproduced with variable drop sizes from 7 to 21 picolitres for near photographic qualit y.

Following the huge success of Fujifilm’s ‘New Blueprint for Wide Format’ appearance at FESPA 2022 in Berlin, Fujifilm will use FESPA 2023 to present developments to its existing Acuity models, as well as unveiling an entirely new machine in the line-up. Additionally, Fujifilm will present more details on its partnership with industrial manufacturer Barberan, to bring single-pass inkjet to the sign and display market.

Click on the QR code to obtain your discounted ticket to FESPA

Visit acuit yprimeseries.com for more information or contact your local FUJIFILM representative to request print samples and organise a demonstration.

Use code FESuewDLD75

Visit acuityprimeseries.com for more information or contact your local FUJIFILM representative to request print samples and organise a demonstration.

Visit fujifilm.com/au/en, scan the QR code or contact your local FUJIFILM representation to request print samples and organise a demonstration.

FUJIFILM Australia1300 650 504

FUJIFILM Australia1300 650 504

FUJIFILM Australia 1300 650 504

FUJIFILM Australia 1300 650 504

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FUJIFILM and Fujifilm Value from Innovation are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation. ©2021 FUJIFILM Corporation. All rights reserved.

FUJIFILM Business Innovation Australia 13 14 12

FUJIFILM and Fujifilm Value from Innovation are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation. ©2021 FUJIFILM Corporation. All rights reser ved.

Following the huge success of Fujifilm’s ‘New Blueprint for Wide Format’ appearance at FESPA 2022 in Berlin, Fujifilm also used FESPA 2023 to present developments to its existing Acuity models, as well as unveiling an entirely new machine in the line-up. Additionally, Fujifilm also presented more details on its partnership with industrial manufacturer Barberan, to bring single-pass inkjet to the sign and display market. FUJIFILM and FUJIFILM Value from Innovation are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation. ©2023

FUJIFILM and FUJIFILM Value from Innovation are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation. ©2023 FUJIFILM Corporation. All rights reserved.

EFI’s roll-to-roll printing machines attract customers at FESPA Munich

Print businesses, including those in truck tarp printing, are seeing the benefits of EFI’s roll-to-roll product range.

EFI had several of its machines on display at the recent FESPA Munich tradeshow, but the ones that are gaining the most popularity amongst the Australian customer base are its roll-to-roll printers, such as the EFI VUTEk Q3r and Q5r, EFI VUTEk 3r+ and 5r+, EFI VUTEk D3r and D5r, and EFI Pro 32r+ printers.

EFI senior business development manager Brett Addison told Sprinter that the most popular features from this range are its ability to offer the widest range of application capabilities – inline slitting and cutting, double-sided printing, and more; superb white ink printing performance in single- and multi-layer

print modes; and white and clear ink printing together for increased design and application possibilities.

“During COVID, we found that our truck tarp manufacturers were receiving up to 50 new trailers a week. This meant that printing on truck tarps couldn’t be done the analogue way anymore. With EFI digital

eProductivity Software introduces POGO

Print and packaging software technology company eProductivity Software (ePS) launched its new mobile application POGO and showcased a range of its end-to-end offerings for wide format print businesses at FESPA Munich.

ePs offers integrated, automated, and purpose-built software technology for MIS and ERP, e-Commerce, and industryspecific point solutions designed to drive revenue growth, reduce the cost of sales and manufacturing, and empower successful transformation of packaging and print companies across the globe through business and production workflow automation.

ePS general manager David Bentley said, “For Print ePS, we are focused on commercial printing, namely wide format fulfilment. We are helping customers in the publication sector, brand creative services and even some of those retail or smaller

players, so we are focusing on optimisation tools across the entire print sector”.

One of the products showcased at FESPA was the new mobile application, a module available as part of the core application. It interacts with the Pace MIS system, records proof of delivery, and through its intuitive interface, helps to streamline fulfilment and payment processes.

inkjet roll-to-roll printers, you can print, coat, and cut truck tarps in under one hour using one machine,” Addison said.

EFI UltraClear Coat can be used as a final protective coating, or for decorative applications, and prints with a gloss or matte finish inline, simultaneously with the image. And EFI inks for truck side curtains are warranted by EFI for up to five years (subject to terms and conditions set forth in EFI Ink Warranty for Truck Side Curtains applications).

“UltraClear Coat not only works on truck tarp applications but other applications as well. This special feature means that if you have a backlit graphic or wallpaper that has been clear coated, all you need to do is spray and wipe it instead of having to replace it,” Addison added.

EFI has already sold five of its machines into truck tarp companies locally over the past few years, including the install of an EFI VUTEk D3r at Fleetmark.

EFI’s broad portfolio of wide format printers are available locally through Currie Group.

“The application has been designed for our customers to streamline their delivery and installation process and provide realtime feedback to the system to track, log and record activity,” Bentley said.

The company also provided more details on its partnership with HP Indigo, which was announced at the Dscoop conference in 2022.

“We are delighted to share with our customers that we have full integration with our HP partnership, which is all about drive and workflow automation. It enables customers to report and take orders through our e-commerce platform into the ERP, being able to schedule it by a realtime submission to HP Indigo devices through print OS,” Bentley said.

The integration reports throughout the production process with timely updates about production time, costs and the current completion within the production schedule.

“This automation allows the operators to focus on the value-added, taking care of the customers, delivering a high-quality product,” Bentley added.

Dimense features its latest fourth generation system

Dimense took to FESPA Munich to show off its latest, fourth generation print and emboss system that is one pass and eco-friendly – meaning that it places a high importance on sustainability.

Stick On Signs CEO Abe Weiszberger was at the tradeshow to talk to ProPrint about the system’s capabilities.

Weiszberger said, “Everything about Dimense is about being sustainable. The systems use a water-based glue. It prints on top of a printed mirror and on top of a white colour, bringing in a special effect which is glitter. This enables a next-level effect for product.

“This system is the next step forward for printing because everyone can now print on black and white, or colour. Printing a texture is something new and having something like a 3D effect gives users an added advantage.”

Epson showcased SureColor F2260 DTG printer at FESPA

Epson showcased the SureColor F2200 direct-to-garment printer, a significant upgrade to its SureColor F2100 large format printer, at FESPA Munich.

Tailored for medium volume printing, the DTG printer, which is referred to in Australia as the SureColor F2260, helps users create stunning personalised items.

A range of these applications were on display at the Epson stand at the tradeshow, where the company was demonstrating the full scope and flexibility of this printing technology.

Epson said all demonstrations on its stand at FESPA were designed to show how its printing technology can create beautiful products with healthy revenue streams.

Epson said the new SureColor F2260 is ideal for start-up companies or mediumvolume businesses that need high levels of flexibility and accuracy with fast turnaround times.

Designed to produce complex designs on a variety of garments, it uses Epson’s advanced PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead technology to provide faster printing and data processing speeds, resulting in a productivity increase of up to 25 per cent over the SureColor F2100, while maintaining extremely high print

quality (This applies to light garments only – there is an increase of 15 per cent for darker garments). With a highly compact, flat top design that allows easy installation into smaller spaces, flexibility is further enhanced through Epson’s bundled GarmentCreator2 software, which not only enables the printing of both DTG and DTFilm, but improves the quality of fine lines and small text.

Offering a range of enhanced features designed with ease of use in mind, the SureColor F2260 also allows businesses to maintain high levels of production and quality without the need for specialist operators.

A transparent lid and internal light, for

This product is currently in beta stage of production and Weiszberger confirmed its availability in Australia “at a later stage”.

Weiszberger also mentioned that Dimense’s products have been gaining popularity in Australia, such as the Dimense 3D structured wallpaper printer which was purchased by two Australian printers at PacPrint last year.

“We have seen quite a lot of success with our technology. Businesses are coming to realise what the Dimense systems can do, which is about adding value in printing,” he said.

“You can either be a printer that prints what everybody else prints or you can be a value-added printer that creates something which nobody else can. This is the advantage of Dimense – giving the printer an option to create something unique.”

Melbourne-based Stick On Signs is the Australian agent for Dimense’s products.

example, enable easy print-status checking, while an intuitive 4.3-inch touchscreen makes operation fast and simple. With automatic carriage height adjustment, the F2260 remains stable with minimal adjustment by the user, and the platen can be easily removed and attached by hand, making adjustment for printing different garments quick and straightforward. The GarmentCreator2 software, features faster data processing well as 600dpi resolution, to deliver exceptional colour output.

“Although the DTG market has become challenging due to DTFilm technology, this development offers new and mediumvolume businesses a highly cost-effective and flexible option that delivers outstanding quality and can easily be scaled to meet future needs,” Epson Europe manager of product management, commercial and industrial Heather Kendle said.

With a very low TCO, the F2260 uses new UltraChrome DG2 Ink Pouches instead of cartridges. These 800ml pouches (previously 600ml) mean a lower change frequency, and significantly reduce wastage, in terms of space and weight, compared with ink cartridges. Epson’s DG2 ink also reduces bleed between yellow and black, which is important for applications such as light T-shirts, and maintains colour consistency with DG ink.

Straightforward to set up and start printing, the F2260 is supplied as a complete package, including consumables, warranty, servicing and support.

Jetmark to distribute Hasler Solutions in Australia

Printers and printing products distributor Jetmark will be bringing Hasler Solutions’ automatic cutting products to Australia as the former looks to expand its reach into the region.

The distribution deal was announced at the recent FESPA Munich tradeshow.

Hasler Solutions managing director Marc Hasler told ProPrint, “We were looking for a partner in Australia as it’s far away from where we’re located (in Spain). We’ve started the contract with Jetmark as we see them as a competitive and competent company with good technicians.

“Through the Jetmark distribution deal, we’ve installed our biggest machine with scanning capabilities in Melbourne. We’ve also got another installation on the way, also in Melbourne, of a slightly smaller machine.

“All this is possible only with a good, local partner.”

Jetmark managing director Craig Hornsey said, “The Hasler deal, for us, was a no

brainer. Marc has such long-standing experience in the industry that has allowed him to build machines that are better than anything else. That can be seen in the machines’ productivity abilities.

“It’s not just about cutting speed – there are so many more elements to cutting and the speed of a knife blade. With the page scanner, there is opportunity for up to five to six times faster speed than any other machine in the market.

“And with a lot of demand locally for faster turnaround times, automation is key and Hasler Solutions delivers on not only

Australian company wins Best In Show award at FESPA Munich

singer of Newcastle-based band Silverchair – but also acted as a promotional device to launch Johns’ latest album called ‘FutureNever’.

All About Graphics delivered the project using over 1600 square metres of materials using HP Latex, Epson UV Eco-Sol as well as Canon Colorado 1650 and Canon PROGRAF printers.

ImageBox Group won Silver for their refurbishment of the Australian Sports Museum.

automation but also cost, turnaround times, quality and consistency.”

Hasler Solutions’ machines are fully produced in Spain, with 80 per cent to 90 per cent of its parts coming from Germany. The company has been in operation for nearly 15 years and has produced its own machines since 2019.

“We use German components and the structure of our machines is done locally on our site in Spain. This lets us keep labour costs down, which results in more economic machines,” Hasler said.

According to Hasler, the company had plans to make its business more international following its direction to produce its own machines, but that was at the time that COVID caused lockdowns globally.

However, that didn’t dampen Hasler’s spirits, and the company continued to sell machines through phone orders.

“During COVID itself, we managed to install 50 machines worldwide – we have machines in Australia, Canada, Qatar, US, and Europe. I think we did quite well given the circumstances. And last year, our sales were 70 per cent more than the year before. Whoever is investing in Hasler is investing in their future,” Hasler added.

competitions for the print and signage community recognising those who make a real difference to the industry and encourage others to push boundaries in their work,” FESPA president Christophe Aussenac said.

“As a speciality printer myself, I am very proud to support the FESPA Awards and believe that FESPA has a vital role to play in encouraging our global community to continue to evolve, innovate and inspire.”

There other Australian winner at the 2023 FESPA Awards who received Silver recognition for its entry was Next Printing, for its Clinique Hydration Station Pop-Up Store.

The store was installed for a week within Sydney’s high-traffic Pitt Street Mall.

All About Graphics has been awarded the prestigious prize of Best In Show for a complex set of printing jobs delivered for an exhibition for Australian pop star Daniel Johns.

The exhibition titled ‘Daniel Johns: Past, Present & FutureNever’ – was held at the Rialto in Melbourne last year and was a tribute to the award-winning singer and songwriter, best known for being the lead

Judges awarded the prize as they said that “materials were expertly combined in creating a remarkable and memorable space”.

The 2023 FESPA Awards received 210 entries from over 30 countries and recognises new trends and techniques for the printing community to learn from.

“The FESPA Awards is one of the most prestigious and established awards

solution IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH EUROPEAN MAKERS OF INDUSTRIAL CUTTING MACHINES

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offers c JETMARK.COM.AU 1800 538 627 | 87-91 LAMBECK DRIVE TULLAMARINE VIC 3043 AUSTRALIA | SALES@JETMARK.COM.AU

Sydney’s Allprint Graphics buys swissQprint Kudu from Pozitive

Sydney's Allprint Graphics is the new owner of a swissQprint Kudu, which it purchased from Pozitive at FESPA Munich. This is Pozitive's first Kudu sale in Australia, although there are about 30 machines in the field or in production globally.

Allprint Graphics managing director Grant Cunningham told ProPrint that the company, which specialises in retail pointof-sale, decided on buying yet another swissQprint machine as he believes in the quality and reliability of the brand, as well as the stellar service from Pozitive.

The company already owns a Nyala and an Impala.

“We started our company 63 years ago as a screen printing business and have evolved over the years with the addition of digital equipment. About 15 years ago, we embarked on a journey to ramp up our digital capacity and about eight years ago we purchased our first swissQprint

machine,” Cunningham said.

“We then bought another swissQprint machine about six or seven years ago with the view to retire some of our screen printing equipment.

“Our requirements for a machine that could handle more capacity also increased, and given that our experience with swissQprint has been excellent – both in terms of the quality of the equipment and the support from Pozitive – we decided on the Kudu.

swissQprint announces sale of 1,000th Nyala flatbed printer

“The machine is a good match for our business. It has got a good combination of quality output and speed. And the flexibility of the flatbed layout allows us to produce and print on some unique materials as well as our standard range of materials.”

The swissQprint Kudu is a high-end printer that features ten colour channels and up to 30 print heads. It prints at up to 304 m²/h – and that’s for both flatbed and optional roll-to-roll printing (3.2m).

The ability to print on neon inks is a standout of the Kudu, as it allows people to have a swissQprint machine that can really do something more than what is already in the market.

Pozitive managing director Phil Trumble said, “Grant has been a long-time user of swissQprint machines – he already has an Impala and a Nyala – and joining the family of machines is the brand new Kudu. This machine was just launched by swissQprint at FESPA last year and we're very pleased that the first machine is coming to Australia.”

Allprint is looking to have the Kudu installed at its premises at the end of this year following some changes to its factory to accommodate it.

then expand and change that configuration later.

swissQprint production manager Christof Lüchinger said, “Right from the start, practically every customer has ordered the roll-to-roll option and thus, so to speak, gets two printers in one”.

Other add-ons include the dual roll option, the board option for panels up to 4m long, the glass option and the Rob loading and unloading robot for unmanned shifts.

Nyala has nine freely configurable colour channels, so in addition to CMYK there is capacity for light colours, white, effect varnish, orange, neon and a primer.

The swissQprint production team celebrated a milestone at its company headquarters in Switzerland: the sale of its 1,000th Nyala machine, due to be finished and delivered in June.

The announcement was made at FESPA Munich.

The company launched the Nyala UV flatbed printer in May 2012. The 3.2m-wide flatbed printer has been a success story since its launch 11 years ago.

swissQprint said the printer enjoys a large following around the globe. In the

European market, it has been the bestselling model in its category for eight consecutive years.

Due to its print bed dimensions and modularity, Nyala offers freedom in applications and formats that it can handle with up to 1350dpi in resolution.

swissQprint chief sales and marketing officer Carmen Eicher said, “Our customers also appreciate the high system availability and low energy consumption”.

The users can configure their printer according to present needs and

Helpful features contribute to an efficient workflow: in tandem mode, Nyala processes larger print runs non-stop. Thanks to the registration pins and powerful vacuum, any format is quick to set up and print.

Every one of the current models has been certified according to ISO 20690:2018 for “top-in-class” energy efficiency. They consume an average of just 2.2 kWh, the same amount of electricity as an ordinary electric kettle.

Pozitive is the local distributor of the swissQprint Nyala in Australia.

Agfa demonstrates Tauro H3300 multi-pass inkjet at FESPA

Agfa showcased a new roll-to-roll printing module on its fastest multi-pass wide-format inkjet printer family, the Jeti Tauro H3300 LED, at FESPA Munich.

The compact Flex RTR will allow for swift switching between rigid and flexible media, maintaining high productivity levels.

Print service providers can benefit from increased flexibility with the Flex RTR module, which doesn’t need undocking when transitioning from rolls to boards or sheets. This improves printer uptime and maximises print production efficiency. The module marks the next step in the Tauro's automation story, focusing on the optimal utilisation of this hybrid printing solution's versatility.

“Automation is at the core of our inkjet printing solutions development track,” Agfa segment manager for high-end inkjet systems Dieter Jancart said.

“Depending on a company’s specific job types and printing requirements, we will offer a tailored solution that will ensure the most efficient handling of their workload, regardless of whether it involves rigid or flexible substrates, or a combination of both.”

The Flex RTR was developed to match the one-pass printing mode on the Tauro

Xeikon brought its end-to-end digital solutions to FESPA

H3300 UHS LED, up to a printing speed of 905 m²/h. It has a compact footprint and is ergonomic and user-friendly. With the press of a button, the dancer rolls controlling media tension move upward, enabling quick and effortless loading of the media by a single operator.

With the ability to handle both single- and dual-roll printing, the Flex RTR module can accommodate widths of up to 3.3m and 1.6m, respectively, with a maximum roll diameter of 400mm and a weight of 450kg for each roll.

Switching from single- to dual-roll printing and back is a quick and straightforward process that can be accomplished by a single operator. The dancer rolls do not need to be removed or reinstalled but can remain in place during the changeover.

To ensure accurate double-sided printing, the integrated camera system reads QR codes generated by the printer's user interface to pinpoint the exact image location and adjust the print position at the start of each job. If printing on the back side is unexpectedly halted, the camera system will identify which image needs to be printed, so that production can resume rapidly and flawlessly.

spectrum of printing, from marketing communications, specialty applications and interior decoration, to labels and point of sale solutions, the latest iteration of Xeikon’s Wall Deco Suite ran live to showcase digital printing on a variety of non-woven materials from its substrates partners Ahlstrom and Lahnpaper.

This end-to-end inline solution consists of a jumbo unwinder, web cleaning unit, and Xeikon CX500 digital press followed by a water-based varnishing module and a slitting and waste removal unit before a wallpaper rewinder.

Visitors were also able to see innovative examples of how Xeikon’s fully integrated and sustainable manufacturing technology can be used to drive more growth.

Xeikon was at the Fespa Global Print Expo 2023 in Munich, Germany, where the broad versatility and flexibility of its digital printing technologies was on show, along with new innovative concepts that it has developed in cooperation with its customers.

Over 30 different applications were displayed at the Xeikon stand where

the company demonstrated its digital print portfolio.

The company said it is exhibiting its integrated end-to-end solutions designed to give printers the freedom to diversify and exploit opportunities in different segments.

In addition to presenting digital print samples and products covering the whole

In cooperation with customer Färggrossen, which is one of Sweden’s largest suppliers of paints and wallpapers, the stand also featured a new interactive kiosk concept that allowed customers to choose, customise, visualise and order wallpaper in store.

Meanwhile, a large feature wall displayed art wallpaper with a unique 3D clay effect designed by wall deco customer belarteSTUDIO – another Xeikon customer with a unique design philosophy.

Canon unveils two new Arizona 1300 models at FESPA

packaging, and industrial markets.

Designed for productivity, the new printers provide versatile, accurate and highly efficient multi-board and doublesided printing.

With variable print speeds of up to 52.8 m²/hr, the Arizona 1300 series with FLOW technology allows users to print pin-sharp, high-value print applications.

The company said customers will benefit from eye-catching prints on rigid or flexible media of any size up to 1.25m by 2.5m with the Arizona GTF or 2.5m by 3.08m on the Arizona XTF.

Canon took to FESPA Munich to launch two new models in the Arizona 1300 flatbed printer series, the GTF and XTF.

The new presses feature award-winning FLOW technology, an innovative zone-free vacuum system that makes media handling easy.

Extending the comprehensive Arizona flatbed printer family, the Arizona 1300 series with FLOW technology serves the growing mid-volume segment, enabling large format graphics printers and other print service providers (PSPs) to offer their customers an extensive range of applications for retail, interior décor,

ORAFOL launches new PVC-free PPF films and laminates

at FESPA

Ahighlight of the ORAFOL stand at FESPA Munich was the launch of the company’s PVC-free films and laminates as alternatives to the standard range, specially developed for the high demands in the advertising and automotive sectors.

One PVC-free alternative is the ORAJET 3971RA+ ProSlide cast thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film for vehicle wrapping and other long-term applications. It offers very good formability.

According to ORAFOL, the high-gloss, white, PVC-free film offers the best printability on all digital printing platforms. Thanks to the ORAFOL RapidAir and ProSlide technologies, the product can be quickly and easily bonded to complex surfaces with deep recesses and contoured curves. Particularly longlasting results are achieved when used in combination with the transparent and PVC-free laminate ORAGUARD 279.

ORAFOL Australia managing director Alex McClelland explained that PVC-free PPF is an emerging market in the industry and fast gaining appeal. Although he pointed out that the product is environmentally sound, he is quick to steer away from greenwashing.

“We manufacture plastics, so we don’t want to make environmental claims that are not 100 per cent true. Nevertheless our

company is very environmentally conscious,” he said.

In fact, ORAFOL’s sustainability values extend to many areas of its operation.

• It implements an integrated management system that meets all requirements of DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 and DIN EN ISO 14001:2015 – at its headquarters in Oranienburg and, following these systems, also in the US. Each year, an independent certification body carries out audits and provides evidence that the company not only meets the requirements of the underlying standards, but also sets own standards in all areas.

• The company strives towards an energy-efficient use of raw materials and energy resources in closed cycles, and continuously invests in

The FLOW technology also allows much quicker media changeover while its board size makes it an ideal solution for printing many short-run jobs spread throughout the day, allowing users to deliver commercial quality prints with higher levels of productivity.

environmental technologies. Consequently, the use of regenerative incineration plants at the headquarters leads to a significant reduction of harmful emissions. Energy efficiency in Oranienburg continues to be maximised by recycling usable heat back into the production process as well as into the building heating system.

• The concept of sustainability finds reflection in planning and design of the company’s sites. At the headquarters in Oranienburg and worldwide, ORAFOL invests in ecological construction measures that create ecological compensation and provide an environment for animals and plants. These are, for example, small ponds, tree plantings or similar green spaces on the production sites.

• ORAFOL’s “Energy” working group has introduced the necessary steps for converting all process equipment that run on natural gas to also run on liquefied gas, LNG. Upon completion of these expansion projects, ORAFOL will still be able to manufacture its products regardless of any future disruptions to the supply of natural gas.

Back on the subject of the PVC-free PPF range, McClelland explained that it was introduced a few months ago as a soft launch and that ORAFOL is running courses on how to apply it.

The PVC-free PPF range took from 12 to 18 months to develop he said, admitting that it has been a worthwhile exercise as the products provide an important niche in the marketplace.

Mike Boyle reflects on new global HP role in Barcelona

“The theme that we have around the stand here at FESPA is getting into the sustainable aspects of what we do. Everything on this stand has been printed on an HP Latex – so it is really nice to see the possibilities.

“We are celebrating 15 years of HP Latex this week – it was 29 May 2008 at Drupa that we first announced it – so we had a birthday cake to celebrate this journey.

“I can’t share anything ahead about Drupa in 2024, but I can reveal that the market should expect more around innovation on a workflow basis and more on an ecosystem play as well.

Former managing director of HP Australia and New Zealand Mike Boyle has commented for the first time on his new global role located at HP in Barcelona.

In an exclusive interview with ProPrint at FESPA 2023, Boyle – who is now the global head of large format go-to-market – said that although he started the new role 10 months ago, he only completed the move to Barcelona three months ago.

“It has been quite a long process, but I am very excited to be finally in Barcelona. It is nice to be able to walk the corridors of the organisation as it is a very vibrant site and we have thousands of people there including our research and development team,” he said.

“It is good to use my go-to-market experience being close to our customers

and partners to drive innovation as well as making pragmatic decisions moving HP forward. It is a great honour as an Australian to have a role in HP in that regard.

“I am managing several countries –everything from emerging markets to the US, Latin America, India, Singapore and Europe – it does mean a lot of travel. And as HP has a long association with cinema, I was also fortunate to attend the Cannes Film Festival recently as well.”

In terms of trends, Boyle identifies textiles and indoor graphics as one of the key areas for growth in the large format category.

“We are looking at textiles and interior spaces as being a very big opportunity –especially around hybrid working spaces –such as home offices which I am about to undertake myself so I am not going to be the plumber with a leaky tap,” he mentioned.

HP showcases the capabilities of its Stitch S1000 dye sublimation printer

HP took to FESPA Munich to showcase its latest innovations, one of them being the HP Stitch S1000 dye sublimation printer.

Sprinter caught up with HP worldwide LF solution pre-sales GTM lead Jeremy Brew at the HP stand to learn more about the machine.

“There is a printer that I haven’t ever had the chance to talk to Australia and New Zealand about – the HP Stitch

“We are using three words to describe the business at the moment – firstly Stunning… in terms of stunning applications and working to broaden our versatility around applications.

Secondly we are looking to Streamline… and not only look at what printers do in terms of printing time but how do we improve efficiency and lastly Sustainability… and what does it mean from an end user environment as well as our PSPs and partners – we are looking to get them to dial in and look for ways they can contribute in a positive way to sustainability for all of us.

“These are our key messages for the printing industry at the moment. I am very energised and really loving my new role. I have a great team and great partners, but I do miss everybody in Australia and I will be coming back a couple of times between now and the end of the year – so I am keeping close ties with the Australian market as well.”

S1000, which is our 3.2m dye sublimation printer,” Brew said.

“One of the things that we really love about this printer – and our customers love – is that with dye sublimation, you often need to pick if you want to print on transfer paper or direct to fabric. The great thing about the HP Stitch S1000 is we let you do both.

“On this machine, we can run paper for very sensitive materials such as silks and scarves and very stretchy materials or for signage, exhibitions displays or backlits. We know customers want to print direct, so this machine allows users to switch from paper directly to fabric without reconfiguring the machine at all.

“It is a very versatile dye sublimation printer and we are excited to have it running here at Fespa 2023.”

Familiar faces seen at FESPA Munich

We encountered friendly and familiar faces everywhere we went during the 4 day FESPA event in Munich. Here's who was seen:

Local industry gathers at FESPA Australia member function in Munich

FESPA Australia held a gathering at the FESPA Club at Messe Munich to celebrate visitors from downunder at this epic show. This is who we mingled with at the event:

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