a substance capable of holding or bonding materials together by surface attachment or adhesion.
The principal uses of adhesives include the labeling of bottles, jars, drums, cases, shrink-wrapped packages, pallet and box ends, components or products, and in all kinds of manufacturing assemblies and products.
The label industry uses four main types of adhesive:
Hot Melt, Water Based, Solvent-Based and Cureable Adhesive.
Adhesive Performance
With the wide range and variety of end-use and performance requirements of label adhesives there are of necessity also a wide range of special adhesive performance needs. Pressure-sensitive adhesives for example, may be categorized by several criteria, initially according to their performance or removability. The choice of adhesive will then be dictated by the nature of the substrate and any influences to which the label is exposed.
Some examples of pressure-sensitive adhesives include:
The Zebra GK420d direct thermal printer offers the best value in a basic desktop printer, featuring a fast 5 inches per second print speed to meet your low- to medium-volume printing requirements. The GK420d has a sleek and compact design, boasts the smallest footprint in a 4-inch desktop printer, and supports a variety of applications and industries.
The GK420d comes standard with EPL and ZPL programming languages, and dual connectivity (USB, serial) for easy integration into existing systems. For additional flexibility, 10/100 internal Ethernet is also available. Well-suited to any industry, the reliable GK420d desktop printer is a smart investment that's always a perfect fit.
The latest issue of Labels & Labeling is available on labelsandlabeling.com. Have you read it yet?
If you haven't, just open it and navigate through its free news content, including many exciting features:
Digital dash: How four new digital label presses and standalone print/cut systems set the scene for Labelexpo Americas
Wine notes: PS labels have made big inroads into the wine market, but wet glue stays strong
RFID - Where now? New technologies and applications are opening up opportunities for label converters
Code check: Will your optical codes scan? Find out how to set up and calibrate a QA system
Latin American success: Label Summit Latin America showed the region is still growing
Plus all the latest news from our global correspondents worldwide
Labels & Labeling's online reading experience has been enriched with engaging video content.
Its intuitive navigation ensures ease of use and a more compelling, page-turning version than a static PDF.
Simply select the issue and then turn pages as you would with a printed magazine.
Label News India also available
Published with Labels & Labeling, Label NewsIndia provides detailed technical information, relevant to the Indian market, and gives case studies, showing the opportunities available to local converters.
STARTRACK Blank Shipping/Despatch Labels
Finished Label Size: 100x150mm
Premium Direct Thermal Paper with Permanent Adhesive
8 rolls of 350 labels per roll (2800 labels per carton)
MAY SPECIAL OFFER $9.95 per roll = $79.60 per carton
Discount Price Guaranteed Until JAN 2011
Suitable for all small Zebra Thermal Desktop Printers
Dial A Label are a preferred supplier of Startrack Express -Blank Shipping/Despatch Labels. These Blank Shipping/Despatch Labels are supplied on a Premium Coated Direct Thermal Material with Permanent Adhesive.
Dial A Label also stock a HUGE RANGE of Direct Thermal Labels primarily for shipping instruction. To see the range in our online store please click here
Welcome to the inaugural issue of RM Australia & New Zealand Di@logue
For over 75 years, Avery Dennison has been supporting customers worldwide by offering innovative packaging solutions to make brands stand out on store shelves and move shoppers to choose them. We also provide information that makes supply chains more efficient, more accurate and responsive to consumers. Our focus is to make brands more inspiring and the world more intelligent.
Starting with this, our very first electronic issue, we'll be bringing you information that helps drive your business forward. Each edition will include news of recent industry developments, technological/process/product innovations and market/applic ation solutions, we will also include frequently asked questions from valued customers like yourself from the next issue.
Designed to establish a regular communication platform between us, our new RM Australia & New Zealand (Roll Materials Australia & New Zealand) Dialogue is a quarterly eNewsletter that enables a two-way interface by welcoming your suggestions. I eagerly anticipate hearing your insights.
David Martin
Vice President and General Manager
Materials Australia, New Zealand and South Africa
It's my choice labels are available here for Myer suppliers.
500 labels per roll.
To order these it's my choice labels FREE OF CHARGE simply click hereand BUY NOW.
Please select CHARGE TO MYACCOUNT for billing purposes, this way all costs including freight will be forwarded to Myer
All orders received before 2pm will be despatched for next day delivery!
If you would like to know what other products and services Dial A Label provide please click here to view our home page. All of our products are listed on the left hand side.
If you require any help please do not hesitate to call our friendly Customer Service on 03 9764 2882
Congratulations to Trish Jackson of Star Services International, winner of our online ordering competition!
Trish picks up the new ipod Nano, with video camera, large screen, FM radio with live pause valued @ $199 just for shopping online with Dial A Label.
We look forward to keeping you up to date on exciting competitions, special promotions and the latest product information of interest to you in the New Year.
All the best for the festive season.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year
Dial A Label will be closing for our annual Christmas break on Tuesday 22nd December at 12pm, and re-opening for business on Monday the 11th January 2010.
We wouldn't want you to run out of any labels you might require during this time, so please place your orders now to avoid being short of supplies.
From all the staff and Management at Dial A Label, we wish to thank you for your ongoing support and great business through 2009.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year
STARTRACK EXPRESS LABELSIN STOCK NOW AT DIAL A LABEL
Did you know Dial A Label are a preferred supplier of Startrack Express -despatch/shipping labels. These despatch/shipping labels are supplied on a premium coated direct thermal material with permanent adhesive.
Startrack Express - despatch/shipping labels are supplied in cartons of 2,800 labels (8 rolls of 350 labels on 38mm cores) Startrack Express - despatch/shipping labels are suitable to fit in all small desktop Zebra Thermal Printers.
Label Size: 100 x 150mm
We also stock the Laser Sheet range if you use a laser or Inkjet printer.
Startrack Express -2up laser labels. These laser labels are supplied on a premium laser stock with permanent adhesive suitable for all Laser and Inkjet Printers.Startrack Express - 2up laser labelsare supplied in cartons of 500 sheets (1000 labels per carton)
Label Size 210 x 148.5mm
Dial A Label also stock a huge range of Laser Labels primarily for shipping instruction. To see the range in our online store please click here
To purchase any Startrack roll labels click here or if you are after Startrack Laser Labels click here
Dial A Label, Australia's fastest and most reliable label company is in the process of upgrading its website. What's changing? The website will include a full redesign, new content, new features, products and services.
We aim to launch the new site at the beginning of November 2009. To help kick off the launch anyone who purchases online in the month of November/December will go into the draw to win the new iPod nano. Now with a video camera, a polished anodised aluminium finish and a larger screen.
Keep checking our site for further updates or if you would like to register and receive our launch and other marketing mail visit our site and register today!
Here at Dial A Label we have taken steps to ensure that your online shopping experience with us is a safe and secure one.
We realize that security is a concern for all who use the internet. That is why we use the latest in 128 bit SSL encryption technology to keep your personal and credit card/banking details protected.
You can shop with confidence knowing that your payment details cannot be viewed, accessed or tampered with whilst using our site.
Dial A Label Pty Ltd is committed to your online security and privacy.
All reputable e-commerce sites use the SSL system for their transactions. The industry standard for encryption technology, SSL is compatible with Internet Explorer, Netscape, AOL, Web TV and most other browsers.
All information received and transmitted is locked by SSL in an encrypted envelope. This makes it almost impossible to be intercepted by an unauthorised party, as long as your browser and local network support the use of encrypted data transmissions.
You will know when your data is safe by the appearance of a security notice when you enter a secure page. In addition a secure icon will appear on your browser. For Microsoft Internet Explorer this is a "lock icon". Secure web pages can also be identified by their URL. They begin with "https://", while standard pages begin with "http://".
Did you know, Dial A Label is an AUTHORISED RESELLERof Zebra Technologies and now supplies a range of Zebra label printers?
And of course, we can make all the labels you need to run through them, and probably have the size you use sitting on ours shelves right now. Click here for labels available.
We also stock a huge range of Thermal Ribbons if you're using Thermal Transfer Labels.
For your thermal printing needs we recommend Zebra label printers. Zebra are one of the most respected names in label printers, renowned for print quality and reliability.
Our website is undergoing an upgrade so please keep an eye out for changes on Thermal Printers, in the meantime if you have a question please call us on 03 9764 2882 to discuss your printer and label needs.
Dial A Label is an ISO9001:2000 quality assured manufacturer of self-adhesive labels.
Dial A Label specialize in the manufacture and distribution of a wide range of stock line labels, including: Direct Thermal, Thermal Transfer, Laser Sheets, and Labels for Dymo's. Because we produce these labels in bulk, we are able to keep these popular sizes on hand at all times. This means guaranteed next day delivery, at prices much reduced from industry standard.
AUSPACK 2009 returns to Sydney, taking place from Tuesday 16th to Friday 19th June at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park.
AUSPACK 2009 provides you the ultimate business platform to speak face-to-face with thousands of industry professionals from an array of industry sectors; all under the one roof. In fact the final visitor numbers to the 2007 event were 7,053 and one of the reccuring themes is the quality of the attendees.
Indeed with 83% of the visiting attendance identifying; they were directly involved
in the purchasing decision for their company.
AUSPACK 2009 is the place to do business!
A captivated and qualified audience of trade professionals attend with one thing in mind, to find the "newest" INNOVATIONin packaging and food processing machinery, materials and associated technologies. Display, demonstrate and
discuss the solutions you have on offer providing them with the INSPIRATION to act; with the ultimate outcome of achieving more efficient processes and better
RESULTS.
These Questions will help in ensuring we quote the right end product.
Jun 23, 2009
1. WHERE IS IT GOING & WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE?
Details of the end-use and application of the label help establish what label stock and adhesive will best suit. Some stocks are not suitable for certain applications so we want to make sure we quote a label stock that will work, but also be able to provide a range of alternatives where practical. This includes the material/substrate of what you are putting the label on and the temperature of both the product and contents during application and use. Providing sample material and using a stock sign-off sheet will assist in ensuring the right material is specified.
2. WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE LABEL?
Labels are quoted in mm with the leading edge first (also referred to as the 'width' or 'across' measurement). This is very important for labels that are machine applied as it determines the way the labels are printed and affects die choices and plate directions. We also need to know if the size is critical or are they flexible (and to what mm) with the sizing to match existing die sizes.
3. HOW MANY LABELS DO YOU WANT OR USE?
What is the practical volume of labels to quote on eg. 5,000 / 10,000 / 20,000. For many labels the cost per 1,000 decreases as the volume increases. By quoting on a range you will be able to determine where the quantity breaks become more economical. Sometimes a quote is requested only for a 1 month supply when it would be much more economical to get a 3 month supply quote.
4. HOW IS IT BEING APPLIED?
Is the label being applied by hand or through a labeling machine or applicator? This helps establish the roll direction and backing sheet requirements.
5. HOW MANY LABELS ON A ROLL AND WHAT CORE SIZE?
Generally the higher the number per roll, the more cost effective it is in finishing time. Eg. A job of 100,000 labels with 1000 rolls of 100 labels will take longer in finishing than 100 rolls of 1000. Our stock core sizes are 25mm, 38mm and 76mm. Other sizes can be catered to. The core size and roll quantity is particularly important for machine application or if the labels are going through a printer.
6. WHAT IS THE ROLL DIRECTION?
Label sizes are quoted with the leading edge first. Use the roll direction form to check.
7. IS THE LABEL GOING THROUGH A PRINTER?
Labels that go through thermal printers, laser printers or dot matrix printers all have special requirements in terms of face stock, backing and sometimes the need for sprockets on the side. The heat of certain printers (esp. laser printers) demands special stock or the labels will not work.
8. CAN I HAVE A SAMPLE OF 5-10 OF YOUR CURRENT LABELS?
Requesting a continuous strip of their current labels is helpful for the estimator to determine what print cylinder was used and to replicate the current draw of the label (including the gap).
9. CAN WE PRINT A SAMPLE FOR THE CLIENT TO CHECK?
Generally No - Press labels require significant amounts of time and expense in set-up (for plates, dies and preparation). We can provide a digital sample of the 'look' where considered necessary - just be aware that the colours are representative only and a PMS book should be checked.
10. WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET OR EXPECTATION ON PRICE?
We aim to provide the most cost effective solution - by obtaining their budget or expectation for new labels ensures we take this into consideration when quoting or recommending alternatives.
After Labels from Stock ready for next day delivery?
The three speakers will each address their key areas of expertise in these FREE seminars, which will be moderated by respected broadcaster, journalist, lawyer and businesswoman Elaine Canty.
All visitors to PacPrint are welcome to attend the PacPrint Forums, however demand will be high and places limited. Act now to register for the PacPrint Forums.
World Class Speakers to Address PacPrint 09 Forums
Apr 14, 2009
Internationally renowned experts Professor Neville Norman, Dr Peter Ellyard and Mr David Parkin have been confirmed as the keynote speakers for the highly anticipated PacPrint 09 Forums, PacPrint Chairman Alastair Hadley announced today.
The three speakers will each address their key areas of expertise in these FREE seminars, which will be moderated by respected broadcaster, journalist, lawyer and businesswoman Elaine Canty.
On Wednesday 27 May, Professor Norman will look at the economic and business climate, and discuss how businesses in the graphic arts can chart their future directions and maximise opportunities within this context.
If you would like to better understand today's economic climate and how it impacts on business, this session is an ideal opportunity to do so.
A renowned economist, academic, teacher and researcher, business consultant and analyst, Professor Norman is an accomplished media and video performer who has addressed more than 4000 business and community groups in over a dozen countries.
Professor Norman is a powerful and provocative speaker who is committed to increasing understanding of how the economy actually works, so that businesses can make more informed choices for the future. Importantly, he also has the gift of being able to make facts and figures come alive, making economics easily understood...and anything but boring.
Professor Norman will be supported by a panel of industry experts, who will help bring the information on economic direction, impacts and strategies into the specific context of the print and communications industry, and will join a group discussion about the response of businesses in the graphic arts to the current economic climate.
The following morning, world-recognised futurist and strategist Dr Peter Ellyard will look at future strategies, with particular focus on climate change and the environment, bringing his extensive expertise to bear on real issues facing print and communications businesses and the industry today.
Dr Ellyard is an enlightening, challenging and thought-provoking speaker who inspires audiences to think creatively about their futures, and to find innovative and sustainable solutions to challenges.
He is highly experienced executive in both the public and government sector and today heads a number of groups dedicated to devising key strategies for the future. An inspiring lecturer, adviser and public speaker, Dr Ellyard is also the author of "Ideas for the New Millennium" and "Designing 2050: Pathways to Sustainable Prosperity on Spaceship Earth", released earlier this month.
If long-term success is among your aims for your business, Dr Ellyard is a must-see speaker. In his address to the PacPrint Forum, he will not only discuss sustainability in an environmental sense, but will demonstrate how print and communications businesses can open their minds to new possibilities, redefine what they do and broaden the context in which they operate, replacing entrenched ideas and behaviours with new insights which lead to what he calls, "sustainable prosperity".
Dr Ellyard will also be supported by a panel of industry experts, who will to bring the principles and ideas he raises into the industry arena and give attendees the opportunity to discuss the issues with their peers.
On Friday 29 May, one of Australia's most sought-after business and motivational speakers, David Parkin, will tackle the issue of Future Leadership, and how to identify, motivate and mentor the leaders of the future at both a corporate and industry level.
A gifted teacher, lecturer and educationalist, Mr Parkin is also a very well known Australian Rules (AFL) premiership player, captain and coach, as well as a respected media personality.
He combines his considerable talents and experience in the sporting and academic arenas to the world of business, with key areas of expertise including leadership, team dynamics and the fundamentals of organisational success - all issues of critical importance for every business in the print and communications industry. And, as would be expected from one of Aussie Rules most inspiring coaches, he is rated as a superbly practical and motivating speaker.
At the Forum, Mr Parkin will be supported by a panel of industry experts who will join the discussion about the challenge of recruiting, mentoring and retaining the leaders of the future, and how businesses might adopt Mr Parkin's strategies and ideas specifically in the printing and related industries.
"We are absolutely delighted to have secured speakers of such a high calibre for the PacPrint 09 Forums," says Hadley.
"The PacPrint 09 Forums will offer visitors the chance to hear these world-class speakers address topics of vital importance, not just to the graphic arts but to all businesses, particularly in these challenging times," says Hadley.
While the sessions are offered completely free of charge to PacPrint visitors, limited seating at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, together with the outstanding quality of the speakers, makes registration a must.
To register, or for further information about the forum series, go to the PacPrint website www.pacprint.com.au/forums
There could not be a more appropriate place than Paris to hold this year?s FINAT annual conference. It was here ? 50 years ago ? that a small meeting was held which gave birth to FINAT, now one of the oldest trade associations in the world.
This year?s congress has as its theme the slogan ? Rendezvous with the Future. It will take a close look at the future of decoration technologies and pressure sensitive labeling. Delegates will also hear a brand owner?s perspective of the future; while the conference will also examining the evolution of the industry.
Delegates will be hearing about the history of FINAT and packaging, and about value innovation and where the industry?s future lies. They will hear the association?s vision about the days ahead and will obtain an outlook into the hosting country state of the industry in the context of European label market developments, which in turn will be put into the macro economic perspective.
FINAT and its co-host UNFEA, the French national label association, have secured a range of first class speakers including label industry watchers Mike Fairley (Labels & Labeling) and Corey Reardon (AWA Alexander Watson), packaging specialists Robert Opie (Museum of Packaging) and Frans Boumans (ING Bank) and association leaders Jan Frederik Vink (president FINAT), Dominique Durant des Aulnois (president UNFEA) and Jules Lejeune (MD FINAT). These experts, well known to the label industry, will be complemented by external keynote speakers Marc Touati (ACDEFI), Ben Bensaou (INSEAD) and mountaineer Cathy o?Dowd.
As this special anniversary edition of the annual label industry intends to link the past with the future, the program will feature as its moderator innovation specialist Hans van Grieken (Capgemini), whilst former FINAT secretary-general and the association?s historian Mans Lejeune will introduce the FINAT 50th Anniversary Book commemorating the occasion.
Toshiba TEC Corporation acquires RicohâEUR(TM)s Auto ID business
Jan 25, 2009
Toshiba TEC Corporation, a retail and industrial automation solutions provider, has acquired the Auto ID business from Tohoku Ricoh Co., Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ricoh Company. Prior to the transfer, Tohoku Ricoh separated its Auto ID division and established AI Solutions Co., Ltd, in October 2007. Toshiba TEC purchased the 100 percent share of the AI Solutions Co., Ltd on December 28, 2007 and completed the acquisition.
AI Solutions Co., Ltd has been specialized in development, manufacturing and sales of Auto ID systems with the annual turnover of 3 billion Yen, and Toshiba TEC expects to enhance the resource of auto ID solutions with this acquisition.
I wrote about the the very intriguing Sub Rosa infused vodkas last month. The two initial vodkas, one infused with saffron (hence the golden color), the other infused with tarragon are definitely a fresh addition to packed field of multi-filtered, multi-distilled brands which sometimes blur together. The Sub Rosa spirits are now being shipped out in Oregon and Washington.
Mike Sherwood, the creator behind Sub Rosa vodkas recently emailed me to let me know his website was completed and also gave me the fascinating story of the Sub Rosa labels that offers a peek behind what it takes to get a label launched. Sherwood reports that it took a couple of months to get the labels approved partially because of his arcane and rather flowery wording. Sherwood's examples of the before and afters are after the jump and close up label pictures are in the gallery below.
Saffron Vodka
Proposed wording on the Saffron label: "By accepting this elixir, you are now part of the Cadre of Sub Rosa".
Rejected: elixirs are ancient medicinal formulas and can't be used in reference to alcohol lest anyone think they can be cured by drinking.
Compromise: 'By accepting this spirit....' 'By accepting this bottle...'
Tarragon Vodka
Proposed wording on the Tarragon label: "Light notes of anise that are herbal and refreshing".
Rejected: 'Light' connotes light alcohol even though it was talking about a flavor.
Rejected: And 'refreshing' you can't use that in conjunction with distilled spirits. It's a health claim. You can use 'refreshing' on a beer label, but not a distillate.
Proposed wording: "Behind the hidden doors of Sub Rosa lie hidden truths where ethanol alchemy and molecular gastronomy meet".
Rejected: Alchemy is the ancient art of not only turning lead into gold, but also concocting medicinal formulas.
Compromise: They finally accepted 'ethanol divination' instead of alchemy.
Sherwood reports he also had to translate all the Latin used on the labels. and that they also had a problem with the use of the Olympic Games motto of 'Citius, Altius, Fortius', which is Latin for "Faster, Higher, Stronger" but eventually let it pass. He says that apparently there are 100 words that you cannot use on a liquor label but that they can't tell you what they are unless you use them.
The Sub Rosa labels also include the 'All Seeing Eye' of the Freemasons on the Saffron emblem front side and the backside of the Tarragon features the 'Eye in Hand' that is used as a protection against evil. Sherwood had planned to have Sub Rosa Spirits out in August but his playful labels ended up costing him a month and a half in government delays. Luckily, he seems totally unrepentant and we can only wonder what mischief he will get up to next.
Labelexpo Europe 2007, which took place 26-29 September in Brussels, surpassed all its records this year, in terms of visitors, exhibitors and equipment sales. This makes Labelexpo Europe 2007 the largest and most successful label event ever to have taken place.
In total, 24,752 visitors from 114 countries attended this year's show - an increase of seven percent over the 2005 event. This included large delegations from Australia, Brazil, China, India, Japan, Russia, South Africa, Turkey and the Middle East.
A remarkable 66 percent of visitors extended their visit by at least a day (compared to 2005), which meant that the daily attendance was significantly higher than the overall figures suggest.
Of the 511 exhibitors at the show, 145 were exhibiting for the first time, showing the continuing growth and development of the industry.
Exhibitors reported a marked increase in machinery and material sales and, by the end of the show, 85 percent of exhibiting space had already been rebooked for Labelexpo Europe 2009 - the show's highest rebooking rate yet.
New for 2009 - the Digital Experience
A major development for Labelexpo Europe 2009 - announced at this year's event - is the creation of the Digital Experience in Hall 9. This hall will be opened to exhibitors in 2009 and will have a strong focus on digital technology. Within a week after its announcement, over 70 percent the available space had already been booked by suppliers including HP, Xeikon, Epson, EFI and Grafisk. The event is currently looking at ways of making more space available.
Sun Chemical to debut digital label production innovations at Labelexpo
Oct 12, 2007
Labelexpo 2007 in Brussels will be the venue for what is claimed by Sun Chemical will be a significant development in digital label production. It will also provide the stage for an innovation for the UV flexo market. The show will also serve as a launch pad for a number of other Sun Chemical products for the narrow-web and labels industry, including developments in brand protection and printable electronics.
Sun Chemical has already established itself in the narrow-web market with the Solaris range of inks and coatings for
narrow-web printers. At Labelexpo 2007 new products will build on that foundation to help printers and brand owners improve their productivity and efficiency.
The Solaris product line includes inks that are claimed to make labels stand out by being specially formulated to meet the needs of customers. The inks can be paired with coatings that add such effects as gloss, matt and chemical resistance. The full range includes products for virtually all narrow web-printing processes, including UV flexo, water-based flexo, screen whites and colours, and letterpress and lithography.
Jonathan Sexton, Sun Chemical Europe's business manager for narrow-web labels, said: "We are pleased with the response to our Solaris range since its launch at the last Labelexpo Europe. The range has brought to the narrow-web market important benefits that include faster cure speeds, low press room and cured print odour, lower humidity sensitivity and improved adhesion and resistance."
Felipe Mellado, Sun Chemical Europe's corporate vice-president, added: "We will be revealing a number of unique and innovative products specifically designed for the narrow-web market at Labelexpo 2007. These exciting new technologies open up new opportunities for printers. They also keep Sun Chemical at the forefront of the industry and represent our long-term commitment to the sector."
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Wal-Mart Packaging Scorecard should not become an industry standard, says Europen
Oct 04, 2007
Europen, The European Organization for Packaging and the Environment, has urged the packaging industry to avoid allowing the Wal-Mart Packaging Scorecard becoming a de facto industry standard.
In an address to delegates at the Third Annual Sustainable Packaging Forum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Julian Carroll, managing director of Europen, said: 'Europen believes that we should all avoid the risk of the Wal-Mart Packaging Scorecard becoming a de facto industry standard. Not only could such an eventuality disrupt the market but even worse, it risks evolving in such a way as to become an inhibitor of innovation rather than a stimulator. Just getting a high score for your packaging with Wal-Mart should not be a reason to rest on your laurels. In our dynamic industry this is clearly something we do not want.'
The packaging scorecard announced by Wal-Mart last year requires all suppliers of packaged goods to the world's largest retailer to submit data concerning their packaging and its environmental performance. The scorecard contains nine different criteria including greenhouse gas emissions; evaluation of the packaging material type; transport distances; product packaging ratios; cube utilization; recycled material content; methods of waste recovery; the type of energy used and any special energy saving initiatives in the manufacturing process.
Europen has also cautioned that the Wal-Mart Packaging Scorecard should not be regarded as an environmental indicator. The company itself has gone to great lengths to stress that it considers its scorecard as one of its 13 business management tools introduced to evaluate the performance of its suppliers and buyers. Europen has endorsed Wal-Mart's position that the scorecard should be regarded as 'work in progress' with scope for continued improvement and has recommended that industry packaging experts continue to work with Wal-Mart to further develop the tool.
In pointing out differences between the North American and European approach to packaging and environmental questions, Europen has identified market forces as the key driver in North America while legislative pressure has been the chief instrument driving change in Europe. Carroll said that the Wal-Mart initiative should be seen as a bold first step which has contributed to raising awareness of packaging environmental issues within the North American market.
HP works with associations to advance digital printing
Oct 03, 2007
HP has expanded its HP Graphic Arts Capture Business Success Program to include collaboration and joint activities with PIA/GATF and the NAPL. HP will provide customers with a greater range of tools, training and programs to create their digital difference and capture business success.
'HP places high priority on its customer success commitment to provide the very best of what is available in business development,' said Francis McMahon, director of marketing, US Graphic Arts Organization, HP. 'We have learned through our successes with the Digital Solutions Cooperative how collaboration creates a very special community for businesses to thrive in.
'With this expansion in its association relationships, the HP Graphic Arts team is continuing to assist in the development a stronger digital printing presence within both associations to fully reflect the contributions and advancements digital solutions provide to the industry,' continued McMahon. 'Through this approach, HP customers benefit from a holistic approach to business development, with important services offered by HP, communities such as the Digital Solutions Cooperative users' group, and the extensive industry knowledge that both PIA/GATF and NAPL share with their respective members.'
'We are very pleased to be moving forward with HP for exciting new partnership opportunities,' stated PIA/GATF president and CEO Michael Makin. 'We have strategically looked at our organization and HP to see where we could create mutually beneficial services. We feel this new relationship will benefit PIA/GATF members as well as Digital Solutions Cooperative members.'
'We're pleased and proud of our partnership with HP,' said Joseph P. Truncale, NAPL president and chief executive officer. 'We share a common vision for our progressive, emerging industry.'
New seminars and special feature areas at Labelexpo Europe
Sep 20, 2007
New for this year's Labelexpo Europe show, are two high-level seminars focusing on the latest label industry developments. On September 27 Mike Fairley, strategic development director at Labelexpo, will an interactive presentation covering 'The European and global label markets - trends, opportunities and issues'. The seminar will help label printers and converters to identify the key geographical areas to invest in now and in the future. For the first time, a detailed global survey will be unveiled at the seminar comparing and contrasting growth trends in the main label industry regions of the world.
The second seminar on September 28 will be delivered by Andy Thomas, editor of Labels and Labeling magazine. The topic of the presentation, 'The future of label converting - materials, technology, solutions and management,' will analyse the latest technological trends driving the market. He will also advise label printers on how to achieve better performance and manage the constant changes in the industry. Achieving profitability and good margins will also be discussed during the seminar.
Other features for this year's show include a Smart Zone, where visitors will get the chance to see the latest innovations in RFID technologies, anti-counterfeiting, brand protection and time/temperature indicators. Exhibitors in this special area of the show, include: Timestrip, Labelvision, Muelbauer and KSW Microtec, to name a few.
Labelexpo Europe provides a unique forum for the label industry to get together and learn about the latest technologies available. The event represents a major platform for new product launches with many machines and materials making their global and European debut in Brussels.
Over 25% of exhibitors at the show will display working machinery on their stand, making the visitor experience highly interactive and business-led. The show is expected to welcome over 500 exhibiting companies to Brussels, including major global suppliers such as: Nilpeter, Mark Andy, Avery Dennison, Gallus, UPM Raflatac, Omet, Gidue, HP, Rotometrics, Rotoflex, Xsys Print Solutions and Zeller + Gmelin.
Pantone has updated the white paper on its website - originally created on 13 September 2007, as shown by the properties of the pdf file on their website - after the open letter has been sent to them by VIGC and has been posted on the GraphicBrain.com website.
Now it explicitly states that the RGB values on the color guides are sRGB, which was not the case in the previous version. VIGC looked up the old version via the html-version of the Google search engine. This 'html' function caches pdf documents that Google encounters on the internet. VIGC has posted a pdf printout of the old version (without the graphics unfortunately) on their website: www.graphicbrain.com/pantonegoe.
'VIGC applauds the fast action of Pantone, on the condition that also the color guides, those patches and the user interface of their software will explicitly mention that the RGB values are sRGB,' said a statement.
Pantone Goe 'creates serious problems with RGB values and their CMYK conversions'
Sep 19, 2007
Managing director of trend watcher VIGC (Flemish Innovation Center for Graphic Communication) Eddy Hagen has looked into the newly launched Pantone Goe system and has spoken to Pantone Inc. at Graph Expo in Chicago.
'Although the new Pantone Goe system offers some nice features, especially the color communication using Lab, there are some serious issues in terms of design and documentation. We want to warn users of possible pitfalls when applying Pantone Goe,' commented Eddy Hagen. 'We sent out an open letter to Pantone and notification to our members but find it important enough to share this with other users in the market.'
These are the main problem areas VIGC has detected:
Standard Pantone CMYK conversions problematic Before Pantone Goe, Pantone already had multiple versions of digital libraries (old and new), for different regions (Europe has specific libraries) and for some colors each and every one of these libraries shows a different CMYK conversion value. Try to look up Pantone 072 in following libraries: Pantone Solid to Process (the 'old' library, name: 072 PC), Pantone Solid to Process EURO (the 'old' European library, name: 072 EC), Pantone Color Bridge CMYK PC (the actual library, name: 072 PC) and Pantone Color Bridge CMYK EC (the actual European library, name 072 EC).
'All four of them have different CMYK values. There are reasons for these different CMYK values (film based vs. CTP-based workflow and slightly different process colors in the US and in Europe) but if the old libraries are not deleted when newer ones are installed and if the average designer doesn't know about the different libraries, we're getting into a serious mess. Therefore the Lab-based color communication of Pantone Goe would be a blessing for the industry,' commented Eddy Hagen.
Pantone Goe: which RGB color space? Apparently Pantone does not clearly identify which RGB color space (sRGB, AdobeRGB) is used for the RGB-values next to patches in the new Goe color guide, for RGB-values in the colorPICKER software supplied with Goe. The color guide patches, the user interface of colorPICKER just state 'RGB'. It's also not specified in the product literature, nor in the white paper. At the GraphExpo show, a Pantone representative said that it wouldn't make that much difference whether the numbers would be applied in sRGB or AdobeRGB. Which is incorrect.
Homework: delta E = 12 Eddy Hagen said: 'I did some homework and took one of the color patches specified in the Pantone product literature: Pantone Goe 37-5-1 (a kind of purple). I created two documents in Adobe Photoshop, one with sRGB as its color space, the other one with AdobeRGB. Then I colored both with the RGB numbers they provide with the patch: 187, 53, and 145. Just try it; you'll be amazed what a difference you will see! The delta E*ab is nearly 12, even with the newer delta E 2000 it still is over 6! This is obviously a major difference. I have posted a PDF showing this issue on our website: www.graphicbrain.com/pantonegoe.'
Accurate color communication 'Pantone Goe could have been a blessing for the industry, with color information being transmitted as Lab-values, not as CMYK-values. Already in the design phase it is not stated which RGB color space is intended for the numbers provided in the color guide and in the software, which is a missed opportunity.' concluded Hagen. 'We hope Pantone will correct these problems as soon as possible as it will create serious headaches with printers, brand owners and prepress specialists.'
Omet introduces offset unit and new press at Labelexpo
Sep 14, 2007
Omet is to introduce an offset print unit at Labelexpo. It is designed to be inserted in-line on the Varyflex press in combination with other already available printing technologies including flexo, rotogravure, silk-screen, hot and cold foil.
At the show Omet also introduces a new servo-driven flexo press called the X-FLEX, and shows a range of other new equipment including its camera-based Vision-1 automatic press setting system for reducing waste during press make ready and change over, the redesigned Varyflex F1 and a Flexy-S servo equipped with a Twin-Cut variable die cutting unit and Hip-Mitsu hot melt applicator for building pressure sensitive stock in-line.
Printers cut CO2 emissions by 4,800 tonnes with UV from GEW
Sep 14, 2007
UV systems manufacturer GEW has revealed figures on CO2 emissions with cost savings to date based on the supply of its e-Brick electronic UV curing systems.
Malcolm Rae, managing director, said: 'We are developing products to help printers use energy more efficiently with UV systems that not only reduce consumption and costs, but also reduce CO2 emissions. These are now key issues in almost every aspect of industry including retail packaging where brand owners are favouring "green" suppliers and demanding compliance with pre-set environmental criteria. Since the launch of the e-System range, we calculate that collectively, printers running with e-Brick have reduced CO2 emissions by 4,800 tonnes based on the UK average of CO2 produced per kW hour generated. In addition the related cost savings of curing with e-system products amount to a staggering £1,000,000 plus. We can only imagine the impact of this as a contribution in reducing the carbon footprint of the printing industry alone.'
The e-System was launched in mid 2005 and has been well received by both press manufacturers and printers wanting to upgrade existing machines and replace traditional ballast power supplies. The system uses high frequency electrical output that increases UV power efficiency by a minimum of 10 percent - thereby reducing electrical costs and contributing to a cleaner environment.
Rae continued: 'Further benefits are the significantly reduced size and weight of the new systems that reduce the impact of transporting the product. Since many of our systems are shipped airfreight, this has a significant reduction on CO2 emissions. In terms of manufacturing we have also designed our own UV testing method that helps us to significantly reduce our in-house energy use, further contributing to a low carbon future.'
Free printer's web-guide for fast growing UV/EB technology
Sep 06, 2007
With the rapidly expanding use of UV/EB technology in the printing and packaging industries, RadTech has developed an internet based educational site for printers. 'The RadTech Printer's Guide consists of a series of unbiased articles that inform, educate and instruct current, and future, printers in the use of energy curable materials and processes,' said Graham Battersby, RadTech industry consultant, and editor of the site.
The guide contains articles on inks, rollers, blankets, curing equipment, radiometry, press set up, and best practices. In addition, an on-line EH&S (environmental, health and safety) video provides an overview of the safe use and handling of UV/EB products and processes.
The site is intended to present a growing environment for the posting of new topics and emerging trends in UV/EB technology.
Current sections include:
- Review of current UV/EB applications
- How EB accelerators work and how to use them correctly
- EH&S video; as well as links to other EH&S information
- Radiometry: explanation of what UV energy is and how to measure it
- UV/EB chemistry and technology
- Press set up: how to set up a sheet fed litho press to print UV inks
- Hybrid inks: best practices when using UV curable hybrid inks
- UV inks: an introduction to the use of UV sheet fed litho inks
- EB litho inks: an introduction to the use of EB web litho inks
- UV narrow web flexo: best practices in the use of UV inks
- UV news: How to use UV inks on a coldset newspaper press.
UPM Raflatac labelstock to achieve PEFC and FSC certification
Sep 06, 2007
UPM Raflatac has achieved both PEFC and FSC Chain of Custody certification for a range of labelstock produced at its Scarborough factory in the UK. PEFC, the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes, and the FSC, Forest Stewardship Council, are the main certification schemes related to the sustainability of wood used for the production of papers.
The UPM Raflatac range of PEFC-approved products consist of the company's Vellum, Raflacoat and Raflabrite materials, which target bulk end-uses such as food, retail and logistics labeling.
'A clear chain of custody is crucial to many retailers,' said Jan-Erik Forsstrom, senior vice president, Europe. 'When we buy a paper from a supplier we want to make certain that it comes from a sustainable source. This strategy helps everyone in the purchasing chain. Our customers can purchase paper stock knowing that their material comes from well-managed certified forests which are legally logged and not from protected forest areas. Retailers can underline their green credentials to consumers, who in turn can make more responsible buying decisions.'
UPM supports and uses reliable forest certification schemes and has built a global chain-of-custody model to monitor and report the share of certified fiber in its products. The system meets the requirements for both PEFC and FSC. Most of the company's units, from forestry to production, already have a certified chain of custody system in place.
UPM Raflatac opens new slitting and distribution terminal in India
Sep 06, 2007
UPM Raflatac has opened a new slitting and distribution terminal in Mumbai, India. The new terminal provides slitting facilities for UPM Raflatac's filmic and paper labelstocks. It also strengthens the company's delivery capabilities to customers in the region with shorter delivery times and a more diverse product range.
'The investment demonstrates UPM Raflatac's long-term commitment to the Indian labeling market. We believe our customers will appreciate our local supply of high-quality filmic labelstock range, as well as our renowned specialty range of paper laminates. Most importantly, we intend to provide a superior service experience,' said Jussi Vanhanen, senior vice president, UPM Raflatac Asia-Pacific.
UPM Raflatac is investing heavily in the Asia-Pacific labeling business. In addition to the new terminal in Mumbai, UPM Raflatac has recently announced the establishment of a new terminal operation in Auckland, New Zealand and in Bangkok, Thailand. In March, the company celebrated the opening of its new pressure sensitive labelstock production facility in Changshu, China. During 2006, slitting and distribution terminals were opened in Jakarta, Indonesia and Guangzhou, China. UPM Raflatac currently operates factories in the Asia-Pacific region in China, Malaysia and Australia.
The Fasson Roll North America division of Avery Dennison Corporation has expanded its thermal transfer offering with Fasson Trans-Therm CX. 'Designed for both flexographic and thermal transfer printing, this new addition offers a bright white, ultra-smooth coating that provides for maximum image resolution and durability.' said the company in a statement.
'Trans-Therm CX delivers excellent printability and smudge-scratch resistance for high readability of bar codes, with increased strength and stiffness for high-speed converting and dispensing,' continued the statement. 'Matched with Fasson S9010 adhesive, the construction provides enhanced adhesion to corrugated allowing for maximum converting speeds, even with the most difficult die configurations. Its unique topcoat formulation provides for low scuffing and improved die life over other thermal transfer receiver papers.'
From all reports LATMA - the Label and Tag Manufacturers Association of Australia - can be justly proud of this year's conference held last week on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Around 180 attended the event which focused on 'Preparing for a Changing World'.
The sessions proved to be a good mix of echnical and business topics, with opening speaker Chris Caton, chief economist, BT Group, setting the scene with economic forecasts for Australia and the rest of the world. Roger Pellow of the Tarsus Group gave an update on the global label industry. Klaus Bachstein of Gallus and Mike Russell of Mark Andy contributed to a panel discussion on technology advancements, trends and market growth. Geoff Martin, president of CCL Industries, shared the perspective of a worldwide leader in the label industry.
On day two author John Lees focused on the attributes of high achievers while Tony Gattari of The Achievers Group demonstrated how to drive profit in business. Delegates were then able to choose between technical seminars depending on their interest before adjourning to the golf course or the tennis court. The theme for the final day was organisational development: Colin Chodos of CCS spoke on managing culture and driving the organisation, followed by a workshop by Paul Puckridge of Success Technologies on managing the behaviour and effectiveness of teams.
"Everyone I spoke to was appreciative of the effort that went into this year's conference and seemed to really enjoy themselves. What was really important to me was that every single person said they learned something," said Frank Gavrilos, who has succeeded Brenton Barrett as national president of LATMA. Michael Aisenberg and Peter Petran remain senior vice president and suppliers' representative respectively, while new junior vice president is John Leathart.
At the LATMA National Label Awards Pegasus Printing took out the Best in Show. Labelworld (WA) and Labelmakers Wine Division scored two Gold medals each. Further Gold medals were awarded to Collotype Labels (SA), AC Labels (NSW), Labelworld (VIC), Fantastic Labels (VIC) and Clear Image Labels.
Tharo Systems, Inc. has introduced a solution for printing bar code and RFID labels using XML (Extensible Markup Language) enabled enterprise systems. EasyLabel 5.5 Platinum's XML monitor will 'watch' a file directory or TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) port and will automatically print RFID or bar code labels when a compatible XML file is received. This feature provides a direct connection to any application capable of generating a properly formatted XML file. 'It will make printing RFID or bar code labels from your supply chain or manufacturing software seamless,' said the company in a statement.
The XML Generator enables the customer to generate XML from a given format file(s). The Generator prompts for the format(s), the number of labels to print, which printer to use, and the variable data used to populate the fields on the format. The XML file that results from the Generator can be used as a template that can be uploaded to and populated from within an XML enabled application. The .Net framework and Windows 2000 or Windows XP is required to use the XML Generator.
This solution is made possible through the use of EasyLabel's XML Generator and XML Monitor and does not require special XML enabled printers. 'You will be able to design label formats using EasyLabel's label design tools and then populate and print them by sending XML files to a monitored folder or TCP/IP port,' says the company.
UPM Raflatac introduces Direct Thermal Premium Eco
Aug 13, 2007
UPM Raflatac, a supplier of self-adhesive label materials and RFID tags and inlays, has announced the release of a new highly resistant, non top-coated, non-smudge-proof, chemi-thermal face paper with standard sensitivity: Direct Thermal Premium Eco.
Direct Thermal Premium Eco is designed for weigh scale applications such as deli and in-store meat labelling and offers additional water and oil resistance compared to standard non top-coated products.
'Our Direct Thermal Premium Eco is a highly resistant facestock that offers and economic alternative to standard non top-coated products,' said Stacey MacNeil, product manager, VIP Labelling. 'With its added strength and superior performance, Direct Thermal Premium Eco enables customers to meet a wider range of market demands and branding requirements.'
I wrote about the the very intriguing Sub Rosa infused vodkas last month. The two initial vodkas, one infused with saffron (hence the golden color), the other infused with tarragon are definitely a fresh addition to packed field of multi-filtered, multi-distilled brands which sometimes blur together. The Sub Rosa spirits are now being shipped out in Oregon and Washington.
