Morten from Inkish interviews Harald Jasper from Actega at LabelExpo in Barcelona about their breakthrough metallization technology, Ecoleaf. Harald explains that for years, metallization at the show was shown only as dummies, but this time it is running live on a press from Gallus. Traditionally, metallic effects were made using foil carriers, which generate large amounts of waste. Ecoleaf replaces the foil with metal flakes suspended in water: a binder is digitally printed and cured on the substrate, then metal flakes are applied and adhere to the binder, creating a glossy metallic surface comparable to foil. He says this method cuts the carbon footprint by at least 80% because it eliminates polyester film production, metallization, and transport. The gloss and reflection now match conventional foil, and when overprinted with inkjet, the results are striking. Harald notes that metal flakes themselves are recyclable and that Actega has received RecyClass certification confirming the recyclability of the finished products. Developed over eight years by a multidisciplinary in-house team, Ecoleaf is already shipping and can be mounted on almost any press—typically at the start of hybrid presses for overprinting with inkjet, or at the start of flexo lines for applications like spirits and whiskey labels. Actega’s focus now is scaling up from 8-hour runs to 24/7 production, expanding globally to support major brand customers, and developing new applications such as shrink sleeves and possibly cardboard. Harald emphasizes that big brands are increasingly driving the push for sustainable packaging, and Actega aims to meet that demand with Ecoleaf.

We like getting great print samples - no doubt about it. We also like to get postcards reminding us about how valuable print is, and how nice it is to get a well-designed printed piece. In this Print Sample TV episode, host and evangelist Pat McGrew appreciate the season cards and samples she received from Mike Herold and Heather Poulin from Ricoh. You should use postcards in your marketing and communication and if you can spice them up with great messages, your customers will love them!

Chinese language - English subtitles

Tony Suh from Hansol Paper in Korea talks to INKISH.TV Henrik Klem Lassen about their newest and latest paper called Subli-Mate - as the name indicates, a sublimation paper. Tony Suh also talks about the value of being at FESPA in Amsterdam and the interest in the company's products.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-schmidbauer-5810235/

Wayne Beckett talks with Has Scheffer CEO & Founder of Helloprint about the importance of AI and how Helloprint are utilising this software in every aspect of their business even down to using AI in the creation of their lunches.

Interesting conversation with CEO Hans Peter Shöllhorn from Hohner.

In the presentation, The New Offset Machine that Doesn't Exist, Hans Jürgen Geiß discusses Druckhaus Bechstein as a full-service provider and printing company. He also discusses how faster setup time on his offset machine brings digital print back to offset. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-jrgen-gei-5a9736131/

At Innovationdays #HID23, the Starbook line was born—but for continuous fed production. Now, Hunkeler introduces the Starbook Sheetfed edition, enabling cut sheet production. Hans Gut from Hunkeler explains how the solutions work and the benefits in this session with Editor Morten B. Reitoft. Great!

In this film, CMO Hans Gut from Hunkeler presents the new stacker with a new Robot arm - as always delivered to perfection :-) LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-gut-68a65213/

Here's a detailed walkthrough of the new Hunkeler Starbook Cutsheet solution. The duration shows how much we dive into details—it's good to learn from! LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-gut-68a65213/

You'll find Hunkeler in Hall 8A at drupa, but you will also find Hunkeler with nine different partners - one of the strengths of Hunkeler. The machines can be integrated with many printing machines and output many different types of applications - remember to check out the Hunkeler solutions when you visit print OEMs like Ricoh, Canon, HP, and more. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-gut-68a65213/

Even for CMO Hans Gut, the Müller Martini acquisition of Hunkeler came as a surprise but was a logical step in a time when consolidations are part of company growth. With a vast potential for both companies, the future is bright. Hans Gut, several times in the interview, emphasizes that Hunkeler will keep also working with competitors to Müller Martini - respecting the legacy and the people - and, of course, once again, a firm commitment to Hunkeler Innovationdays that takes place next time as an even bigger event in February 2025. Great talking to Hans Gut and also getting some commitments for the future.

Interview in English - subtitles in Dutch. As a distributor of the Danish PrintVis software in the Benelux, Rainbow is the point of contact to explain the strengths of this solution. How do they see the graphics market in the Benelux and what solutions do they propose? The INKISH/VIGC talks give the various strategic partners the unique opportunity to tell their story during the long-awaited and largest trade fair in the graphics industry. -- NL -- Als distributeur van de Deense PrintVis software in de Benelux is Rainbow hét aanspreekpunt om de sterke punten van deze oplossing toe te lichten. Hoe zien zij de grafische markt in de Benelux en welke oplossingen stellen zij voor? De INKISH/VIGC talks geven de verschillende strategische partners de unieke kans om hun verhaal te vertellen tijdens de langverwachte en grootste vakbeurs in de grafische industrie. Wij luisteren naar de uitleg van Hans Boerkamp.

Wayne from INKISH is at The Print Show at the NEC in Birmingham, where he meets Hans Boerkamp, Managing Director of Rainbow Solutions. Hans explains that Rainbow Solutions is a partner of PrintVis, the Danish company behind the MIS/ERP software tailored to the printing industry. While PrintVis develops the software, they work through around 20–30 partners worldwide, and Rainbow covers the Netherlands, Belgium, and the UK. Hans outlines the distinction between MIS and ERP, noting that MIS often evolves from an initial estimation and adds features around it. At the same time, ERP is a fully integrated system that encompasses finance, CRM, inventory, and warehousing. PrintVis builds on Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, adding print-specific functionality such as estimating, waste management, speed tables, and other industry-specific requirements. The advantage is that everything is housed within a single, unified system, rather than multiple disconnected tools. When asked about production tracking, Hans explains that PrintVis is JDF/JMF certified and integrates with workflow partners, such as Heidelberg and Agfa, allowing data, including sheets produced and production time, to flow back into the system. Even older machines can be retrofitted with counters to provide valuable data. While integration typically focuses on prepress and press, finishing equipment can also be included. On the front end, Rainbow works with a wide range of web-to-print providers through standard XML messaging and APIs, allowing fast and flexible integration. Although PrintVis doesn’t offer its own web-to-print solution, it easily connects with those on the market, giving customers the freedom of choice. A strong emphasis throughout the discussion is on integration—bringing together finance, CRM, production, and online ordering into one seamless workflow. Hans highlights that while ERP systems like PrintVis may not be an instant decision for printers, building awareness and trust means they are ready when companies consider major system changes, typically every 7–10 years. A detailed look at how ERP can transform print businesses with greater efficiency and integration, filmed live at The Print Show in Birmingham.

In this interview, former President of FESPA, Christian Duyckaerts, talk with Jacques Michiels from INKISH.BENELUX and a great question are what Christian Duyckaerts, particularly, look back on with pride. Exciting results - but listen for yourself!  

The best sailing ship is where the captain knows the details to get you safely home. Meeting Christophe Aussenac at C!Print was a lovely experience, and FESPA couldn’t hope for a better global President. Christophe Aussenac operates a printing company himself and knows the industry. In this interview with Editor Morten B. Reitoft, Christophe Aussenac explains FESPA and how the organization gives back the profit from the FESPA shows to its members. FESPA has many different offerings, though the shows are the ones known best.

Hamilton Costa has a long and fascinating history in the Latin American printing industry. Practically born into the printing industry in his father's printing company, being involved with printing companies of all sizes, has given Hamilton Costa a great background for being what he is today. He knows the industry, he knows the trends, and he for sure is a capable speaker and writer. Enjoy the insights from this Over the Skype with Hamilton Costa. As with all our ‘Over the Skype’ interviews, quality is limited to bandwidth, web-cams, and ability to literally LIVE mix the conversations. However, it works, and with Over the Skype, we will bring you more than 20 exciting people, and angles on the industry as it is right now. Enjoy!

It takes time to develop new technology, and most people, of course, understand that what you see at drupa and other shows has been under development for years - we also understand that what's currently in development isn't shown to many - however, here you get a chance to look into what is expected to be ready for drupa 2028 - the new Highcon Vulcan (working title) - it's a gigantic laser die-cutter (no dies, of course) 140-170 cm width, four lasers and 3,000 sheets an hour - and here Haim Veig gives us an introduction to what's being developed - Interesting, right?

Interview in Dutch - subtitles in English. Agfa verkocht in 2023 haar Offset divisie aan de Duitse Private Equity groep Aurelius, die er wel nog een mooie toekomst in zien. Guy Desmet is de Head of Marketing & Application Worldwide, we vragen hem wat zij naar Drupa meebrachten, hoe zij duurzaamheid zien evolueren en wat de status is van hun hoofdactiviteiten. De productie van (digitale) offsetplaten blijkt nog steeds hun hoofdfocus te zijn. We bespreken ontwikkelingen op dit gebied (on press / off press) en meer. Eco3 is vastbesloten om haar markt en klanten verder te bedienen en blijft trouw aan de grafische industrie. -- EN -- In 2023, Agfa sold its Offset division to the German Private Equity group Aurelius, which still sees a bright future in it. Guy Desmet is the Head of Marketing & Application Worldwide, we ask him what they brought to Drupa, how they see sustainability evolving and what the status of their main activities is. The production of (digital) offset plates still appears to be their main focus. We discuss developments in this area (on press / off press) and more. Eco3 is determined to further serve its market and customers and remains loyal to the graphics industry.

In this 20th episode from Pat McGrew's Print Sample TV, she presents a very cool print sample made by the Museum of Printing in Massachusets. It's in many ways a very uncommon print job with a lot of different techniques used. Even the design must have required a lot of work, but take a look, watch, and listen to your very own Pat McGrew.

Navigating Challenges and Innovations in the Printing Industry: Insights from Andreas Weber and Morten Reitoft's Discussion with Günter Thomas Introduction This article offers an in-depth look at the printing industry's current state and future prospects, guided by a conversation with industry veterans Andreas Weber, Morten Reitoft, and Günter Thomas (GT). It highlights critical issues such as market challenges, innovation, quality, sustainability, and public perception in the context of the German printing industry. Section 1: The State of the Printing Industry The discussion begins with examining the German printing sector's struggles, particularly the impact of rising costs and stiff international competition. Günter Thomas points out the difficulties in transferring increased operational costs to product pricing. He also mentions the burden of political decisions on the industry, such as policies affecting electricity prices directly impacting production costs. Section 2: Innovation and Quality in Printing Thomas emphasizes the importance of innovation in maintaining high-quality standards in printing. The conversation discusses the need for closer collaboration between designers and printers to optimize potential outcomes. According to Thomas, the lack of such interactions hampers the industry's ability to double its knowledge sharing and advance collectively. Section 3: The Role of Packaging Printing The dialogue shifts to packaging printing, a significant and challenging sector in Germany. Thomas discusses how medium-sized companies struggle to keep up with global corporations' capital and scale. He notes that despite its challenges, the luxury sector remains a vital area of focus, especially in terms of quality and innovation. Section 4: Sustainability and the Future of Printing Sustainability is a central theme, with Thomas advocating for environmentally friendly practices in printing. He critiques the general demonization of packaging and urges the industry to demonstrate the beauty and necessity of printed products. He also highlights the need for the industry to consider the lifecycle of products, from production to disposal. Section 5: Engaging with the Public and Industry Image Thomas and Weber discuss the importance of enhancing the printing industry's public image. They suggest that the industry should more actively showcase its technological advancements and the intrinsic value of printed materials. The conversation underscores the need for the industry to step out of the shadows and assert its significance in the global market. Conclusion The discussion concludes with a call to action for the printing industry to embrace innovation, uphold quality, pursue sustainability, and engage more publicly. The industry faces significant challenges but also possesses the potential for growth and adaptation. The key to future success lies in balancing economic pressures with the drive for innovation and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the printing industry remains vibrant and relevant in the years to come.

Today's guest of Andreas Weber, CEO/Country Manager INKISH D-A-CH, is a very special disciple of Gutenberg: Günter Thomas, in short: GT, founder and owner of GT Trendhouse 42. Live from Gelsenkirchen, in the middle of the Ruhr area. The range of topics has it all and reflects the high level of creativity, passion, sensuality and above all the love of print at the highest level. Original GT: “I was not born just to make paper colorful. That would have been too little for me. In our industry, you have to be weird and look over your own horizon. I try to live that. " The discussion takes place, for example, through discounter Aldi as a showroom for special effect printing for brands, print & rock roll. Everything GT does is very positive. "Why are you like you are - always full of joy and love, new ideas and still entrepreneurially successful?" Why is print considered a premium and not a commodity? How can you be highly creative and at the same time a clever inventor and tech savvy to the power of ten in one. How do you get by as a premium print shop without sales? How do customers from all over the world become real friends? As with all our ‘Over the Skype’ interviews, quality is limited to bandwidth, web-cams, and ability to literally LIVE mix the conversations. However, it works, and with Over the Skype, we will bring you more than 20 exciting people, and angles on the industry as it is right now. Enjoy! -- German -- Der heutige Gast von Andreas Weber, CEO/Country Manager INKISH D-A-CH, ist ein ganz besonderer Jünger Gutenbergs: Günter Thomas, kurz: GT, Gründer und Inhaber von GT Trendhouse 42. Live aus Gelsenkirchen, mitten im Ruhrgebiet. Das Themenspektrum hat es in sich und spiegelt die hohe Kreativität, Leidenschaft, Sinnesfreude und vor allem die Liebe zu Print auf höchster Ebene wieder. O-Ton GT: „Ich bin nicht auf die Welt gekommen, einfach nur um Papier bunt zu machen. Das wäre mir zu wenig gewesen. In unserer Branche muss man schräg sein und über seinen eigenen Horizont blicken. Das versuche ich zu leben.“ Das Gespräch führt zum Beispiel über Discounter Aldi als Showroom für Special Effect Printing zu Brands, Print & Rocken Roll. Alles was GT tut, fällt auf Positivste aus dem Rahmen. „Warum bist Du wie Du bist — immer voll Freude und Liebe, neuen Ideen und trotzdem unternehmerisch erfolgreich?“ Warum gilt Print als Premium und nicht als Commodity? Wie kann man hoch-kreativ sein und gleichzeitig ein ausgefuchster Tüftler und Tech Savvy hoch zehn in einem. Wie kommt man als Premium-Druckerei ohne Vertrieb aus. Wie werden aus Kunden aus aller Welt echte Freunde? Hinweis: Wie bei allen unseren "Over the Skype"-Interviews richtet sich die Bild-/Ton-Qualität nach verfügbarer Bandbreite und den jeweiligen Web-Cams aus sowie der Möglichkeit, die Konversationen buchstäblich LIVE zu führen. Es funktioniert trotz allem erstaunlich gut und mit Over the Skype bringen wir bis dato mehr als 50 besondere Persönlichkeiten zusammen und geben Einblicke in die Branche, wie sie derzeit ist. Viel Spaß!

In this intriguing story with and about Günter Korbacher and Weilburger Graphics' journey, James Quirk asks the right uuand interesting questions about products, services, sustainability, the future, and why an investment in new technology was instrumental for Weilburger Graphics' current position in the coating business. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/g%C3%BCnter-korbacher-b692bb145/