This issue of Converting Today focuses on the German printing and packaging industry, which has always been at the forefront of technology.
One such recent innovation from comes from Heidelberg’s Linoprint project. To safeguard against counterfeiters, Linoprotect, is a new anti-piracy system that can be integrated in packaging lines. It allows the end user to check the authenticity of the labelled products using a mobile phone camera, PDA or scanner. This is a significant development, given that the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Business Summit estimates global losses each year of around US$ 600bn due to brand and product piracy.
In a challenging environment, both for converters and the suppliers, a successful manufacturer needs to meet the customers’ growing demands for increased productivity. Speaking about the latest technological developments and the competition the German industry faces, Ralph Schuck, Fischer & Krecke MD and head of Bobst Flexo Product Line, makes an important point.
“Productivity is the magic word,” he says, “If we want to sustain and further develop our market position, we have to provide innovative solutions which will increase the efficiency and productivity of our equipment.”
It’s not just high productivity of the machine but also quick response to customer’s needs that ensures success. This is being proved by Müller Martini’s German press building plant. The 25,000m2 facility produces 50 per cent of the machine parts needed for the company’s printing presses. Apart from the benefits of quality control and effective tracking, in-house production allows Müller Martini to respond quickly to its customers’ urgent needs.
Another way to increase productivity is efficient monitoring of your print runs. A good web inspection system will not only allow you to save time, but also reduce waste, and ultimately save money. This issue of Converting Today looks at a successful pilot installation of the prototype of eltromat’s new web inspection system at Drescher Print Solutions, in Germany.
There are many more case studies and expert opinions in this issue, which I hope you enjoy reading. As usual, we would like to hear from you, your comments on the magazine and what you would like us to cover.
In response to your needs, Converting Today will be re-launched next month as an easier-to-read A4 size publication with a new layout. So make sure you get a copy.
Sonali Advani
Editorial Manager
sonali
