Jet

When it comes to variable data work, digital printers are the ones doing touchdown dances. And on the long-run end of the spectrum, offset printing still reigns supreme. But in the realm of short-run, static work, where digital and offset both frolic, there is harmony in the versatility of being able to use one production process or the other.

Multi Packaging Solutions/Chesapeake has acquired Integrated Printing Solutions and Jet Lithocolor to create a comprehensive end-to-end solution for the credit, debit, gift, loyalty, and insurance card markets. The acquisitions solidify the company’s market position by adding a full complement of card production capabilities to its existing creative services, decorative technologies, and sustainable solutions.

The range of finishing available, combined with increasing customer demands for differentiation, has meant that for many shops, creating the balance between offerings and profitability remains delicate. Let's look at five digital printing establishments and how they've created the balance between meeting customer expectations and maintaining profitability.

Robin Enterprises, central Ohio's leading commercial printer, has officially launched a custom solution to address the growing sophistication of retail marketers. The solution, a data and variable print application running on a unique combination of equipment, resembles the plastic card/greeting card print/finishing line demonstrated by MCS at GRAPH EXPO 2011. The solution has been dubbed “E.L.V.I.S.”—for Expandable Loyalty card Variable Inkjet System.

At the official drupa 2012 International Media Conference, more than 100 media delegates eagerly awaited to hear about the latest drupa product launches that were going to be revealed during the three-day press briefing. Werner Matthias Dornscheidt, CEO and president of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, reported that the show is sold out.

NIAGARA FALLS, NY—Shipman Print Solutions, a printer to the trade, recently installed three new envelope printing presses to help bolster its capacity. The machines are a two-color Halm Jet 2615 perfector; a two-color, 9x12˝ Halm Jet perfector and a two-color, 12x18˝ Halm Super Jet perfector.

xpedx spent this year expanding its offerings with the equipment and services North American printers have asked for. It’s all going to be shown and discussed in the company’s largest-ever exhibit at PRINT 09 in Chicago, booth 1221. It also will hold a contest for printers, awarding two U.S.-based commercial and/or in-plant printers an all-expense-paid trip for two to the new xpedx Technology Center in metro Cincinnati. The two-day trip is valued at approximately $2,500 per winner.

Printing Impressions' Commercial Printing Industry National News for May 2009

GAUGING WHEN a technology is really going to take off is always a tricky proposition. Product roll-outs usually get pushed back due to unforeseen technical issues, and potential buyers tend to be more cautious than even a low-ball projection for the rate of adoption.

The four newest members of The Print Council are industry veterans and dedicated professionals with a sincere passion for the business of print. Custom Data Imaging Corp., Alcom Printing Group, The P.A. Hutchinson Co. and Panaprint, Inc. understand the strength and power of print and the need to work together in educating the next generation.