At Printing United Expo in Orlando, Wayne Beckett from INKISH speaks with Johan Mickelson, Vice President of Inline Business at Plockmatic. Johan describes the event’s opening day as strong, with high attendance and valuable leads. A major announcement for Plockmatic at the show is the full acquisition of Renz, including operations in Germany, Argentina, Australia, Turkey, and the UK. This marks the first time Renz equipment is displayed as part of the Plockmatic Group, strengthening its offering in binding, punching, and winding systems. Johan explains that the integration complements Plockmatic’s coating and finishing solutions, expanding value for customers in both digital and offset environments. Discussing the North American market, Johan notes that it remains stable though slightly flatter this year due to tariffs, financing challenges, and geopolitical uncertainty. The U.S. accounts for more than half of Plockmatic’s global business, supported through both dealers and direct partnerships. He confirms that the 15% tariff on European-made equipment has forced pricing adjustments but says efficiency improvements and production cost savings are helping to offset part of the impact. Johan also highlights several new product launches showcased at the expo, including the DigiFold Ultra cutter/creaser, a new AutoCreaser line for small- and medium-format applications, and expanded ColorFlare embellishment solutions. Plockmatic is also presenting flatbed and sheet-cutting systems for packaging and labeling, broadening the applications possible from digital presses. With an extensive and growing product range, Johan emphasizes that Plockmatic is evolving into a complete one-stop finishing provider, aligning its acquisitions and innovations to meet changing customer demands in an increasingly automated print environment.

At Printing United 2025 in Orlando, Morten Reitoft from INKISH visits the Standard Finishing booth for an in-depth discussion with Johan Laurent about Horizon’s latest innovations in stitching and booklet-making technology. Johan explains that the show has exceeded expectations: “It’s been very busy from the first morning — more visitors, more VIPs than in previous years.” He and Morten then walk through three Horizon systems, beginning with the StitchLiner Mark V, Horizon’s top-of-the-line saddle stitcher. Designed for high-quality finishing of digital output, it handles both sheet-fed and roll-fed input and integrates with Hunkeler, EMT, and Tecnau systems. “It’s not just about ‘ready/not ready’ signals anymore,” Johan says. “We now have complete speed control and automated job changes through full data communication.” They move next to the StitchLiner Mark IV, a hybrid solution for both offset and digital production. It combines a high-speed sheet feeder for digital output with tower feeders for offset sheets, eliminating the need for pre-folding. “Customers like Saxoprint in Germany are replacing folding machines with the Mark IV,” Johan notes. “It cuts out an entire step and gets jobs out the door faster.” Finally, Johan introduces the newest model, the SPF-2000 iCE Stitcher, which replaces the long-running SPF-200 series. Compact, faster, and designed for quick changeovers, it’s ideal for small runs and high job variation. Like Horizon’s other systems, it integrates with iCE Link, the company’s IoT production and monitoring platform, offering both basic KPI tracking and full JDF-based workflow automation. Johan concludes that automation and flexibility remain Horizon’s focus: “Even entry-level systems now deliver full automation, shorter changeovers, and higher quality. Whether you’re running offset, digital, or both — we’ve got a solution.”

Johan Laurent from Standard Finishing gives us a presentation of the Stichliner MK V, which was introduced as a web solution only - but at PRINTING United, we get to see the sheet module that makes the stitching solution capable of both web and cut sheet. The Stitchliner has many super interesting features, i.e., individual scoring of every sheet in a book block, variable stitch length, and much more - and fast - not to forget. But listen to Johan Laurent and learn from the master :-)

In the '70s, Yurchak Printing was a conventional commercial printing company with web presses and sheet presses, but that all changed when the current management decided as one of America's first to become a fully digital supplier of books. Today, the company, located in Pennsylvania, has specialized in short-run books - often legal books and books printed on thin paper, perfect bound, and with covers often with foil stamping - which is an exciting challenge. The show room has numerous examples of great books printed with Yurchak. Yurchak Printing uses Ultimate Tech Impostrip to manage significant parts of its workflow, and IT Manager Jow Walton explains to INKISH how they are utilizing the software.

Landa customers, employees, and former employees rarely talk to us. Rumors suggested that Landa issued strict NDAs, and this is confirmed in an interview with Joseph Falcone, a former Landa Midwest Sales Manager. He was as intrigued by Landa as the rest of us at drupa 2016, and as Joe loved selling new and disruptive technology, Landa ticked the boxes for a new career. It ended after five years, and when Joe Falcone says something, harsh letters are sent from lawyers. Respecting this, and with the NDAs in mind, Joe Falcone agreed to speak with us. Enjoy the interview conducted by editor Morten B. Reitoft.

Jochen Christiaens explains at the IST UV-DAYS about the segments Zeller + Gmeling covers and why the LED UV-Curing is interesting for a company developing inks and varnishes, as always great catching up with Jochen Christiaens.

Jochen Christiaens talks to Wayne about the work that Imagexperts are constantly undergoing with the major inkjet OEM’s.

A chapter has been turned in Heidelberg's story—more openness, partners, and a new approach to customer collaboration with the new Home of Print. Jochen Bender, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, speaks with Editor Morten B. Reitoft about the celebration, how he sees the future, and many other super exciting topics. Please enjoy!

From the Netherlands, living in Malaysia, having a house in Mallorca, and serving Asia Pacific + North Africa for KAMA. Job Van Hasselt gets around, has broad industry knowledge, and is experienced, curious, and successful with KAMA. We met with him in Casablanca - listen :-)  

The car wrapping market is booming, and for Joaquín de las Parras, Sales Manager Commercial Solutions 3M Iberia, it is essential to offer solutions to increase the effectiveness of vinyl application by reducing application times, which reduces costs for the end consumer. ___ El mercado de car wrapping está en auge, y para Joaquín de las Parras, Sales Manager Commercial Solutions 3M Iberia, es primordial ofrecer soluciones para aumentar la efectividad de la aplicación de vinilos reduciendo tiempos de aplicación, lo cual reduce los costos para el consumidor final.

ROQ has come to Fespa with a 100% digital presence! This might seem odd for a longstanding and well-known supplier of screen printing equipment. Roq has managed to address the needs of its customers, who are looking for fast turnaround and automation in direct-to-garment (DTG). This DTG setup can output +200 photo-quality prints per hour, João Sá explains, and only one operator is needed for loading and offloading.

At Printing United Expo in Orlando, Wayne Beckett from INKISH speaks with Joanne Gore from Joanne Gore Communications. Joanne, recognized as one of the inaugural All-Stars at the event, has been active across the show floor, leading student tours, hosting sessions, and supporting the newly formed Customer Experience Management Association. She shares insights on the continued strength and evolution of the print industry, emphasizing that print is far from dead and remains vibrant and full of opportunity. Through her company, Joanne Gore Communications, she helps businesses across the print value chain—from manufacturers to PSPs—understand their audiences, improve their messaging, and sell more effectively. She highlights the importance of marketing, noting that many printers and software providers underestimate the effort needed to attract customers once a website or platform is launched. Joanne also discusses her collaboration with Printing Connect Online, helping PSPs join and benefit from greater industry exposure. The conversation touches on her book, Thriving in Chaos, which offers lessons from her 30-year career in marketing and advice for navigating change and challenges in business.

That radio is funny. I can remember that radio being in my life from the time I was a little girl. We had a little tiny little black and white TV. That got two channels. And I just remember pushing the buttons and trying to find the sound. And when my mom passed and a few years ago, I got a bunch of her stuff. This radio was in there. I'm hearing the same ads, but on different podcasts now. The type of communication hasn't changed. And I love how podcasts have evolved. It takes at least ten touches before your brand is a memory. Is even recognizable. That's where you can really start to recognize the buying patterns and the behaviors. And yeah, a lot of it is because we are bombarded and hit by so many messages. On so many channels. Scrolling and scrolling and scrolling. Oh, oh, I'm going to stop for a second. That spark that makes somebody stop. It becomes a little bit tricky, especially if you're selling a B2B solution. The smart companies are using their employees as brand ambassadors. I tend to be creative with words that need to be graphic designer. I got into the print industry as a typesetter. I have roots in print. And a lot of what I surround myself with are those fond memories. I've got illustrations of my parents. These are the things that I look at. That no matter what craziness is going on. I feel like so much has changed. But yet so much has stayed the same. I think we should stop calling it the print industry. And start calling it the communications industry. You know, I've been hearing for years print is dead. Print isn't dead. Print is dead. Print isn't dead. Print has changed. Print is different. Print is more. Print is communication. Print is the only medium where you can take a digital brand and actually make it physical. Are we ever going to call ourselves the communications industry? I think that would be awesome.

Good talking with Joan Casas about how the Spanish market perceives their new product launches. Fujifilm is launching several European novelties and unveiling them to the Spanish audience here in Madrid at the C!Print show. We delve into topics such as ROI, sustainability, and strategy that they see fit for the Spanish region.

At Printpack India 2025, Wayne Beckett speaks with Joakim Kranz, Sheetfed Sales Manager for IST Metz, about the company’s presence at the exhibition and its long-standing partnership with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen. Kranz highlights IST Metz’s role in supplying UV equipment for Heidelberg presses, emphasizing the importance of the Indian market and the company’s commitment to supporting sales in this price-sensitive yet rapidly growing region. The discussion explores IST Metz’s engineering support for India, with a global service team operating from Southeast Asia and Germany to provide post-sale assistance, repairs, and operational guidance. Kranz also explains the company’s approach to retrofitting UV equipment onto existing presses, as well as upgrading systems to LED technology, which represents the future of UV curing. With India’s expanding print industry and increasing demand for advanced UV solutions, IST Metz is well-positioned to continue its growth in the region. This conversation offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of UV curing technology and IST Metz’s strategic focus on the Indian market.

Look back at March 2020. When the Covid-19 started in Thailand. I became tutor and speaker. One picture that I remember really well is: I was helping her who spoke to me. It made me know that other industries have troubles. And that Covid-19 hurts many businesses. This was the starting point for making the Printery Podcast. I interview a person in the printing business about how they solve their problems in the pandemic. Large format printing communication to set the hygiene in the hospital. And suggest this type of communications for the doctor. And sharing knowledge communication. I think like many people who say that printing is essential too in the crisis. Printing can deliver solutions quickly in the pandemic. I am thinking that print is essential in the crisis when the technology sector has grown. And there are more and more innovations. Printing - there will be more printing. Diverse, modern - it works. And printing is also a part of other businesses and people. My name is Jitngarm Pramaneenil. I live in Thailand. I am a podcaster at printery podcast. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jitngarm-pramaneenil-641584137/

At Printpack India 2025, Wayne Beckett will meet with Jitender Rohilla, the General Manager of Komori India, to discuss the company’s impressive growth and dominance in the Indian market. With a market share of 85% in commercial printing and around 60-65% in packaging, Komori continues to strengthen its position as a leading offset press manufacturer. Jitender Rohilla highlights Komori’s focus on publishing, commercial, and packaging sectors, emphasizing the increasing demand for high-end printing solutions. With India’s printing industry rapidly expanding, especially in the food and FMCG segments, Komori is set to install 60 machines this year, including 16 packaging presses with specialized configurations. The GL 40 Advanced EX Edition has emerged as a standout model in packaging, while the GL 437 remains the best-selling press in the commercial segment, with 22 units sold last year alone. One key takeaway from the discussion is the high rate of repeat customers. With 70% of sales at the exhibition coming from existing clients, this is a testament to Komori’s product quality and after-sales service. With 13 machines already confirmed within the first three days of the show, Komori India is experiencing one of its most successful Printpack events to date. For anyone interested in the latest advancements in offset printing and the future of India’s growing print market, this conversation offers valuable insights into Komori’s strategies, innovations, and continued success.

At Printpack India 2025, Wayne Beckett meets with Jitender Pal Singh, CEO of Kurz India, to discuss the latest advancements in embellishment technology and sustainability. With a bustling exhibition stand and record-breaking footfall, Singh discusses Kurz’s commitment to reducing environmental impact, including their breakthrough in reducing foil thickness from 12 microns to 6 microns. The conversation also covers the company’s latest innovations, such as the 60-degree box design concept, Silver Line technology, and, for the first time in India, digital foiling options. Singh provides valuable insights into the business considerations behind digital embellishment, addressing whether print service providers should secure customers before investing in new technology or take the plunge first. With over 125 years of industry expertise, Kurz India is at the forefront of guiding businesses toward the right solutions for their market needs. For anyone considering digital embellishment, this discussion offers key takeaways on market trends, customization opportunities, and the future of print finishing.

Jim Rosenthal has attended almost EVERY EFI Connect, and in this chat, with editor Morten B. Reitoft he gives many great reasons for why you should also attend. Jim Rosenthal is the President of PDC Graphics in Pennsylvania and delivers a mix of data-driven print using EFI technology. Jim Rosenthal also says that he has got good friends at EFI Connect that he considers family friends - and of course, he is going again in January - Let's Connect!

At Printing United in Orlando, Morten B. Reitoft from INKISH speaks with Jim Priebe from Lithone on the first day of the show. Although it’s still early, Priebe explains that his team is already exploring new technologies and looking for potential investments. He describes Printing United as the most important event for discovering not only what to buy now but also what to plan for in the future. Priebe shares that Lithone has recently begun implementing a digital storefront, marking a significant step toward greater automation and online integration. The company is in the process of setting it up and sees it as an essential part of its long-term digital strategy. In addition to software, Lithone is also evaluating new hardware solutions. Having recently added a few printers to their fleet, they are now considering further expansion and exploring digital routers to complement their production capabilities. Staying for the full duration of the show, Priebe plans to walk the floor, gather insights, and identify the right technologies to strengthen Lithone’s operations. The conversation reflects the company’s proactive approach to modernization, combining investments in both digital infrastructure and advanced production equipment to remain competitive in an evolving print landscape.

Our friends from SpencerMetrics have for ten years developed software, sensors, and other means to collect data from printing machines for customers to get better data for important decisions. At PRINTING United, we meet with Jim Martin, the President of Numo Manufacturing - a company specializing in merchandise. The company has their headquarter in Texas, but the 1,000 people operation is in Mexico - so even more important

Almost 30 years ago Jigish Chiniwala started his business developing solutions for marking and coding. Today the company delivers solutions to more than 30 countries from marking and coding to complex security solutions. In the interview, Jigish Chiniwala explains the journey, and we also learn that security can't rely on only one technology. Enjoy!

Wayne talks to Jesper Ellebæk about the services offered by Jesmore in Denmark, who specialise in designing and manufacturing machinery precisely tailored to meet the unique demands of the printing industry.

After the Over the Skype conversation with XMPie Founder Jacob Aizikowitz it was interesting to gain insight to the real meaning of omnichannel related to a print innovation and marketing services business. So a number one candidate for a follow-up conversation is Jeroen van Druenen in Amsterdam, NL. Beside his job as CEO of Jubels — claim: smart printing. smart solutions. — Jeroen is as well member of the global Xerox Premier Partner network and President of the XMPie Unsers Group. Andreas Weber, CEO INKISH D-A-CH, raised some important questions because omnichannel is not a natural part of the DNA of printing companies. Jeroen shared some fantastic insights which are relevant to all of us in the D-A-CH region as well as in the rest of the world. --- Nach dem Over the Skype-Gespräch mit XMPie-Gründer Jacob Aizikowitz war es interessant, einen Einblick in die wahre Bedeutung von Omnichannel im Zusammenhang mit dem Geschäft mit Druckinnovationen und Marketingdienstleistungen zu erhalten. Ein Nummer-eins-Kandidat für das Folgegespräch ist Jeroen van Druenen aus Amsterdam, NL. Neben seiner Tätigkeit als CEO von Jubels — Motto: Smart Printing. Intelligente Lösungen. — Jeroen ist außerdem Mitglied des globalen Xerox Premier Partner-Netzwerks und Präsident der XMPie Unsers Group. Andreas Weber, CEO von INKISH D-A-CH, stellte einige wichtige Fragen, da Omnichannel kein natürlicher Bestandteil der DNA von Druckunternehmen ist. Jeroen teilte einige fantastische Erkenntnisse, die für uns alle in der D-A-CH-Region sowie im Rest der Welt relevant sind. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeroenvandruenen/