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Le meilleur du jet d'encre et du toner

Deux technologies d'impression numérique. Plusieurs solutions. Un partenaire.

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Temps de lecture: 7 minutes

Aujourd'hui, sur le marché de l'impression commerciale, les procédés d'impression analogiques, en particulier l'offset lithographique, dominent encore en termes de volume et de valeur des matériaux imprimés. Cependant, ce volume et cette valeur diminuent à mesure que la demande augmente pour des documents personnalisés imprimés à la demande et en nombres plus petits mais plus fréquents. Ces exigences ne peuvent être satisfaites que par l'impression numérique.

L'étude de marché Smithers nous apprend qu'en 2032, l'impression numérique vaudra $230,5 milliards, soit près d'un quart de la valeur mondiale de tous les imprimés et emballages imprimés. Cela représente un peu moins de 3 000 milliards de tirages A4, soit une augmentation de 68,61 TP3T sur le marché 2022. [1] Et dans ce chiffre pour l'impression numérique, le jet d'encre représentait 61,4% de valeur d'impression numérique avec 62,4% de volume en 2022. Cela passera à 74,1% de valeur et 77,5% de volume en 2032.[2]

Alors que le secteur de l’impression commerciale continue de se numériser, les entreprises ont le choix entre les meilleures technologies d’impression numérique pour les faire progresser. Pour certains, la vitesse et la qualité du jet d'encre seront primordiales, tandis que pour d'autres, la flexibilité accrue du toner et la possibilité d'imprimer des couleurs spéciales et des effets spéciaux pour des applications créatives seront d'une plus grande utilité.

Pour beaucoup, une combinaison des deux technologies sera la solution.

Fujifilm est unique en offrant les meilleures solutions de sa catégorie et des décennies d'expérience dans le développement de technologies à jet d'encre et de toner. Ainsi, quelle que soit la voie numérique empruntée par une entreprise, Fujifilm dispose à la fois du portefeuille de produits et de l'expertise nécessaire.

De plus, l'héritage d'impression analogique de Fujifilm signifie qu'elle comprend le processus et les défis liés à l'introduction des technologies d'impression numérique dans une entreprise d'une manière que ses concurrents uniquement numériques ne peuvent pas.

Lorsque tous ces facteurs sont pris en compte, il n’existe pas de meilleur partenaire sur le marché pour accompagner la transformation numérique.

L'histoire du jet d'encre Fujifilm

L’histoire de Fujifilm et de la technologie jet d’encre est une histoire en plusieurs parties. Il y a les têtes d'impression ; les encres jet d'encre UV et à base d'eau, ainsi que les technologies sophistiquées d'intégration et d'optimisation qui relient le tout. Les technologies jet d'encre Fujifilm alimentent les solutions d'impression comme la Jet Press 750S, qui établit la norme en matière de qualité et de fiabilité dans la production d'impression numérique dans le secteur commercial depuis une décennie, ainsi qu'une gamme de solutions de production jet d'encre pour la signalétique, l'affichage et l'étiquette. et les secteurs de l'emballage.

Têtes d'impression

Fujifilm Dimatix est l'une des marques les plus reconnaissables et respectées dans le domaine du développement de têtes d'impression à jet d'encre. L'entreprise a débuté ses activités en 1984 sous le nom de Spectra, Inc., l'un des premiers pionniers des têtes d'impression à jet d'encre industrielles. En 2005, elle change de nom pour Dimatix avant d'être rachetée par Fujifilm l'année suivante. Fujifilm lui-même est réputé pour son histoire d'innovation, en particulier pour la façon dont il s'est rapidement diversifié lorsque le marché du film photographique s'est effondré au début des années 2000. Cette volonté d'innover s'est poursuivie à un rythme soutenu, et l'acquisition de Dimatix faisait partie de la stratégie de Fujifilm visant à construire sans doute les plates-formes technologiques jet d'encre les plus solides et les plus diversifiées du secteur.

Encres jet d'encre à base d'eau

Fujifilm est l'une des rares entreprises au monde à disposer d'importantes capacités de R&D et de fabrication d'encres à base d'eau et UV pour les secteurs commerciaux, grand format et de l'emballage. Le développement par Fujifilm d'encres à base d'eau destinées aux applications commerciales en particulier a véritablement commencé en 2005 avec l'acquisition de l'activité jet d'encre d'Avecia. Spécialiste du développement et de la fabrication de colorants, pigments et colorants haute performance, Avecia (aujourd'hui Fujifilm Imaging Colorants) a été fondée en 1985 avec le lancement de la première génération de colorants pour jet d'encre de haute pureté et, en 1994, elle avait construit le plus grand appareil numérique au monde. usine de fabrication d'encre aqueuse aux États-Unis.

Avec l'acquisition de Fujifilm en 2005 et l'investissement massif en R&D qui a suivi, des développements plus récents ont produit une série de nouvelles capacités, notamment des colorants de qualité photo pour une permanence d'image de plus de 50 ans, des technologies exclusives de dispersants réactifs et le développement de ultra- encres aqueuses hautes performances pour la presse à jet d'encre B2 phare de Fujifilm, la Jet Press 750S.

Fujifilm Imaging Colorants, grâce à cette innovation constante et continue, est une entreprise qui est devenue le plus grand fabricant mondial de fluides aqueux pour jet d'encre.

L'histoire du toner Fujifilm

Il n'est peut-être pas largement connu du public européen, mais Fujifilm a une longue histoire d'introduction de copieurs de bureau innovants à base de toner, d'imprimantes monochromes et de systèmes d'impression commerciale couleur, ainsi que d'importantes solutions de documents et de services commerciaux. Historiquement, cette technologie était développée par l'intermédiaire de sa filiale Fuji Xerox, désormais appelée FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corporation.

Bien qu'initialement une coentreprise avec Rank Xerox (plus tard Xerox), l'entreprise a été consolidée au sein du groupe Fujifilm en 2001 lorsqu'elle a acquis 75% du capital, et est devenue une filiale en propriété exclusive de Fujifilm en 2019 lorsqu'elle a acquis le dernier 25%.

Au cours des 60 dernières années, Fujifilm a développé une expertise de pointe dans les technologies basées sur le toner, qui incluent désormais les toners et systèmes de fusion EA-Eco hautes performances, les systèmes d'imagerie et d'enregistrement laser, les algorithmes de tramage et de lissage et les systèmes de finition. et systèmes de post-traitement. Bon nombre de ces technologies sont les meilleures de leur catégorie, ce qui se traduit par des performances d'imprimante à la pointe du secteur.

Technologies de toner Fujifilm

Tout comme pour son offre jet d'encre, la capacité de Fujifilm à commercialiser des solutions de presse à toner primées découle de son expertise technologique fondamentale et de sa capacité à les rassembler dans des solutions de production de pointe.

Cette nouvelle gamme tire pleinement parti de l'héritage de Fujifilm en matière de production d'impression à base de toner, ainsi que de la profonde compréhension de l'entreprise en matière d'impression offset et numérique, pour créer des imprimantes de production offrant des performances de pointe. Ils combinent des vitesses d'impression élevées, une superbe flexibilité de finition, des couleurs et des améliorations de pointe et, bien sûr, une superbe qualité d'impression.

La presse phare de la gamme est la Revoria Press PC1120, dotée d'un moteur d'impression avancé et d'un choix de 10 couleurs, dont l'or, l'argent, le blanc, le rose et le transparent, facilement configurables en six stations CMJN avant et après. Avec une qualité d'impression de pointe, une incroyable polyvalence de supports et de finition et la plus large gamme de couleurs, cette presse primée a eu un impact énorme dans le court laps de temps qui s'est écoulé depuis son lancement progressif en Europe, donnant aux designers et aux marques la liberté de créer des impressions de grande valeur en utilisant couleurs spéciales sur des tirages courts ou moyens. Avec les métaux argentés et dorés, ainsi que les couleurs et effets blancs et spéciaux disponibles, les designers peuvent répondre aux demandes des marques de luxe à la recherche de supports imprimés à valeur ajoutée pouvant être produits de manière économique en très petits tirages. De plus, l'amélioration de l'image par l'IA conçue par Fujifilm signifie que les photographies sont automatiquement améliorées au stade de l'impression, ce qui signifie que beaucoup moins de temps est nécessaire pour retoucher manuellement les images.

Rassembler tout cela

Sur le marché moderne de l’impression, la seule véritable façon de rester compétitif est d’ajouter de la valeur. Que ce soit via des applications créatives, des effets spéciaux ou simplement grâce à des niveaux de qualité ultra élevés. Alors que les consommateurs atteignent de nouveaux niveaux de saturation numérique, l’imprimé offre des opportunités plus ciblées et à forte valeur ajoutée.

L'objectif de Fujifilm est de garantir que nous aidons nos clients de tous les secteurs de l'industrie à tirer pleinement parti de ces opportunités. Chaque entreprise est confrontée à un ensemble unique de défis et chacune aura des exigences différentes en matière de technologie et de support pour relever et surmonter ces défis. C'est pourquoi nous avons développé notre portefeuille pour couvrir l'ensemble du marché, de l'analogique au numérique, du toner au jet d'encre, afin de pouvoir collaborer avec les entreprises d'impression à chaque étape de leur parcours d'impression numérique – de celles qui n'ont pas encore réalisé leur premier investissement dans l'impression numérique. , aux entreprises qui ont déjà complètement abandonné l'analogique.

Découvrez le meilleur du jet d'encre. Découvrez le meilleur du toner. Découvrez la différence avec Fujifilm.

[1],[2] L'avenir de l'impression numérique jusqu'en 2032, Smithers Information Ltd, 2022

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Case study: Acuity Prime Hybrid

Allen Signs

Étude de cas

Allen Signs becomes the first business to invest in the Acuity Prime Hybrid to support its efficiency and expansion

Allen Signs

Lincoln, UK

Acuity Prime Hybrid

Temps de lecture: 4 minutes

We sought the Acuity Prime Hybrid as an opportunity to explore the Fujifilm brand further. The printer has now allowed us to carry out our normal production with minimal issues and excellent quality and ink performance.

David Allen | Allen Signs

Voir la vidéo

Points forts

  • Allen signs invested in the Acuity Prime Hybrid in 2023
  • The family-run signage business sought an investment in Hybrid print technology.
  • The printer has seamlessly integrated into the company’s workflow.
  • The trust-based partnership with Fujifilm has proven to be a key factor in the investment.
  • Since the investment, the company has found the printer to be incredibly versatile.
  • The company looks forward to exploring more ways that the Prime Hybrid can help them expand.

UK-based signage and vehicle livery specialist Allen Signs has become the first company to invest in Fujifilm’s new Acuity Prime Hybrid printer. The ground-breaking wide format hybrid machine , which was released earlier this year, is highly versatile due to its ability to handle both rigid and flexible media.

The family-run wide format business was established in 1965, and since then, has been producing a variety of different signage applications for its consumers. David Allen, the company’s Managing Director, says his interest in the Acuity Prime Hybrid stemmed from its versatility and economical ink consumption.

Allen comments: “Due to our familiarity with hybrid platforms, we sought the Acuity Prime Hybrid as an opportunity to explore the Fujifilm brand further. The printer has now allowed us to carry out our normal production with minimal issues and excellent quality and ink performance.”

Allen adds that the Acuity Prime Hybrid’s versatility has enabled his business to print on a wider variety of substrates more efficiently and cost-effectively. The machine is already being used to print on wall coverings, direct to board and even metallic surfaces.

Impressed by the printer’s ease of use, Matt Ryder, Print Specialist at Allen Signs, says: “We tried a job on the new Fujifilm machine, and instantly, it tracked. It was perfect. As for materials, we are yet to come across a substrate that doesn’t work.”

Having built a partnership, based on trust, with Fujifilm, Allen adds: “Fujifilm has been an absolute breeze to deal with. The installation and the training were extremely quick and efficient. I’m looking forward to seeing how the Acuity Prime Hybrid printer will allow us to expand our business in the future.”

Andy Kent, Division Manager, Fujifilm Graphic Communications UK, states: “We are delighted to hear that our wide range of customers are more than satisfied with our printing technologies. As a result of Allen Signs investing in our Acuity Prime Hybrid, they have seen significant increases in print quality and a reduction in costs, whilst expanding their substrate selection. It’s fantastic to see them exploring new business opportunities.”

Acuity Prime Hybrid

Découvrez l’imprimante hybride grand format qui change la donne pour une multitude d’applications créatives.

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L’avenir de l’emballage flexible est numérique

Introducing the Fujifilm Jet Press FP790

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Temps de lecture: 7 minutes

The future of flexible packaging is digital. The future of flexible packaging is inkjet. The future of flexible packaging is the Fujifilm Jet Press FP790.

While there’s no doubt that in the packaging sector, the adoption of digital print technologies has advanced much more slowly than in other print sectors, the direction of travel is unambiguous. A 2021 Allied Market Research (AMR) report estimated the global digital printed packaging market to be worth $20.6 billion (in 2021) and projected substantial CAGR of 9.1% over ten years, to reach $49.9 billion by 2031.[1]

The report singled out flexible packaging as the segment likely to grow the fastest (from the smallest base) and also indicated that inkjet would grow its share of the digital packaging market overall compared with other digital alternatives, thanks to the levels of quality and productivity that can now be achieved with leading inkjet technologies.

There are a number of trends driving these shifts, and Fujifilm has designed the Jet Press FP790 to address all of them head on. In this article we examine three of the most important of these trends and look at how Fujifilm inkjet technology, and the Jet Press FP790 in particular, is uniquely well suited to address them.

Megatrend One: Sustainability

The challenge of developing more sustainable production practices is being driven by a mix of consumer pressure, government regulation and an increasing sense of environmental responsibility on the part of brands and packaging producers.

Reducing waste and boosting recyclability is an increasing concern for packaging companies and this trend is a major driver behind the adoption of digital technology, as it offers a way to significantly reduce waste and the use of consumables associated with analogue print processes.

Going digital has significant environmental benefits here, as far fewer consumables are used before, during and after the production process compared to traditional flexo production, and there is virtually no waste, resulting in a much smaller ecological footprint.

The consumables required for platemaking and the cleaning of processing equipment, the additional packaging required for those consumables, and the additional energy and water use required for those processes are all eliminated.

Additionally, going digital means shorter runs can be printed economically, so you can print just what you need – leading to much less product waste.

Megatrend Two: Time to market  

Time is money, and modern businesses, and modern consumers, expect instant delivery. New product lines often need to be set up at a moment’s notice and the timescales involved in setting up an analogue production line can sometimes be prohibitive – especially for relatively short run jobs.

This is where digital in the form of inkjet really comes into its own. With no set-up time required, the job gets printed straight away and turnaround times are massively reduced.

Megatrend Three: Rapid rise in SKUs and reduced product lifecycles

The proliferation of SKUs is another factor behind the increasing popularity of inkjet. More unique product lines, combined with shorter product lifecycles, mean that companies frequently end up with excess inventory. This leads to logistics and storage challenges, as well as higher levels of waste and higher costs. Short run production, to print the exact quantity you need and no more, offers a way around this, but it is simply not viable using analogue processes.

Related to this, having the ability to quickly and efficiently produce extremely high quality samples is another benefit of inkjet.

Why the Jet Press FP790?

The trends above are driving the interest in digital production – but not all digital solutions are created equal. There are many solutions out there – but only one is a proven mainstream flexo packaging print alternative.

Built on years of Fujifilm inkjet and packaging sector expertise

It’s in the name. Fujifilm’s Jet Press has been synonymous with inkjet excellence in the commercial print and folding carton packaging sector for more than a decade, and Fujifilm’s expertise in printhead and ink development stretches back much further still.

Fujifilm also has a long history in the flexible packaging industry, developing flexo plates, inks, imprinting bars and LED curing solutions.

In the Jet Press FP790, Fujifilm has brought together that combination of inkjet technology and flexo packaging market knowledge to produce a digital flexible packaging press that is not only setting new standards for quality and productivity – but is also designed to fit seamlessly into a typical flexible packaging  production environment with ease.

High quality Fujifilm water based inkjet ink, with a double white option

Fujifilm is one of the world’s leading ink manufacturers and the water based ink in the Jet Press FP790 draws on that rich heritage. The inks also include a unique double white option in the Jet Press FP790, and this, in particular, sets it apart as a machine suitable for tackling everything from the simplest production that just needs to get done fast, through to jobs that require the very highest standards of quality.

Une solution éprouvée

It may be new to the market, but the Jet Press FP790 has already proven its value and its potential through the endorsement of some of the industry’s most respected software and finishing companies who have signed up as partners. These partners include Henkel and Nordmeccanica for coating and laminating solutions, and Logiciel HYBRIDE for our XMF Packaging workflow solution which provides automated pre-press functionality to deliver accelerated turnaround times, maximum productivity and reduced operating costs.

These multiple partnerships with respected and experienced industry names are both a vote of confidence in the capabilities of the press, and a means of ensuring that it can fit easily and seamlessly into existing analogue production environments.

But the endorsements don’t stop there. An early UK beta customer had this to say:

“Sustainable packaging design is not just about material choice. It’s about sustainable production and that’s what the Fujifilm Jet Press 790 achieves for us. With high speed and high quality digital printing, the ability to cost-effectively produce short run lengths, and the elimination of plates and make-ready processes, all mean that the Jet Press 790 brings a host of benefits to our business. It enables us to deliver excellence in print performance, eliminate waste and exceed the needs of today’s flexible packaging market with complete flexibility and agility. We are delighted to be the first installation in Europe and we are confident that the press will provide us with significant advantages in what is a highly competitive market.”

No additional investment required

Most digital flexo packaging solutions require a lot more additional investment beyond the press itself. Special substrates that need special adhesives and laminates and considerable downtime for all the associated changeovers. The Jet Press FP790 is designed to fit seamlessly into existing workflows and existing laminating and other finishing systems.

Overall, it’s clear that digital technologies are set to drive the future of flexible packaging. There are several trends causing this shift, and we will see this continue to grow further. Fujifilm is unique in its ability to combine decades of expertise in inkjet and flexible packaging, along with the support and knowledge of its partners, to provide an innovative solution that is truly future-proofing the flexible packaging market, with the Jet Press FP790.

[1] Digital Printing Packaging Market 2031: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/digital-printing-packaging-market-A08308

Jet Press FP790

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Case study: Acuity Prime 30

Byblos

Étude de cas

Byblos boosts creative potential with Fujifilm Acuity Prime investment

Byblos SRL

Turin, Italy

Acuity Prime 30

Temps de lecture: 4 minutes

Points forts

  • Byblos invested in an Acuity Prime 30 Flatbed printer.
  • The decision was driven by the company’s dedication to superior quality.
  • They have used the press to print on unconventional materials such as wood composite and glass.
  • The finishing techniques such as satin and gloss have been received well by clients.
  • The company are impressed by the exceptional adhesion and vibrancy of the ink.
  • Byblos is enthusiastic about being able to to meet evolving client needs.

L'investissement Acuity Prime 30 transforme notre activité. Avec sa qualité d'impression inégalée et sa capacité à travailler avec divers matériaux, nous avons dépassé les attentes de nos clients.

Alessandro Conté | Byblos

Byblos, an industry leader in high quality print production, founded in 1992, has recently made a strategic investment in Fujifilm’s Acuity Prime 30 wide format flatbed printer. This acquisition has allowed the company to attract a broader customer base, win new business opportunities, and position itself for continued success in meeting customer demands for high quality and customised wide format printing.

With a firm commitment to delivering exceptional wide format printing solutions, the Acuity Prime, installed in May 2023, is the latest addition to their advanced production line-up. Equipped with seven ink channels, CMYK, White, Clear, and Primer, and powered by the ColorGATE RIP, the new printer is empowering Byblos to expand its production offering to include unconventional materials such as wood composite and glass.

The decision to invest in the Acuity Prime 30 was driven by Byblos’ dedication to superior quality and the opportunity to experiment with different types of media and finishing techniques – such as being able to achieve a satin or glossy finish. According to Alessandro Conte, Managing Director of Byblos, these capabilities have been very well received by their clients. Furthermore, the excellent support provided by the Fujifilm team played a significant role in solidifying the partnership.

Conte is enthusiastic about the investment: “The Acuity Prime has transformed our production process and elevated our ability to meet the evolving needs of our clients. Its impressive speed and remarkable quality have exceeded our expectations. We can now deliver personalised, high-quality printing in shorter turnaround times, and unleash our creativity by printing on unconventional materials. This gives us a competitive edge in the market.”

The Acuity Prime 30’s remarkable ink quality enables Byblos to work with a wide array of materials, including various metals and glass, when using a primer. The ink demonstrates exceptional adhesion, with stunning precision and vibrancy in every print. And the durability of the ink allows it to withstand the effects of chemicals and cleaning agents, ensuring longevity and exceptional print quality.

Alessandro Conte, Managing Director of Byblos, concluded: “The Acuity Prime 30 investment is transforming our business. With its unmatched print quality and the ability to work with diverse materials, we have exceeded our clients’ expectations. This investment has not only fuelled our growth but has also solidified our position as a leader in the industry.”

Daniele Carino of Fujifilm Italy added. “The Acuity Prime 30, part of Fujifilm’s ‘new blueprint for wide format’ has been exceptionally well received since it was launched two years ago. It was built to deliver versatility, value and ease-of-use, and we’re delighted that Byblos has become the latest company to recognise its potential and take advantage of it.”

Acuity Prime 30

Find out more about why the Acuity Prime 30 can achieve industry leading productivity and quality

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Case Study: Imprinting Solutions for Direct Mail Printing

Paragon

Étude de cas

Paragon Germany confirms investment in Fujifilm Imprinting Solution for direct mail printing

Paragon Germany

Schwandorf, Germany

Imprinting solutions

Temps de lecture: 4 minutes

Points forts

  • Paragon Germany employs more than 1,200 employees across eight locations in Germany, Czech Republic and Poland.
  • The company has installed a pair of one metre wide Fujifilm imprinting bars.
  • Fujifilm’s imprinting solutions replace legacy inkjet imprinting equipment on a direct mail production line.
  • Fujifilm’s heritage and proven technology was a key reason for investment.
  • The new system provided Paragon Germany with increased uptime, shorter set-up times, and reduced waste compared to the legacy system.
  • Fujifilm is pleased with Paragon’s investment and looks forward to boosting their productivity and reducing costs in the long term.

The Fujifilm imprinting system gives us more up-time, shorter set-up times and results in far less waste.

Bernd Wein | Parangon Allemagne

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With more than 9,000 employees in 20 countries and an annual turnover of more than €1.2 billion, Paragon Group is a major global player in direct mail, transactional print, business outsourcing and packaging. Within that wider business, Paragon Germany employs more than 1,200 employees across eight locations in Germany, Czech Republic and Poland.

Looking to replace legacy inkjet imprinting equipment on a direct mail printing production line in Schwandorf, Germany, the company has turned to Fujifilm and its industry-leading imprinting solutions, installing a pair of one metre wide Fujifilm imprinting bars to print to the front and the reverse of the web.

“There were a number of reasons we went with Fujifilm over rival systems,” explains Bernd Wein, Paragon Operations Director, Direct Mail. “We liked that they fully own all the technologies – the printheads as well as the integration technology. It gives us confidence to be dealing with one partner – a partner that we were confident could offer the service and support we need to ensure ongoing smooth operation and the swift resolution to any problems.

“It’s also proven technology,” Mr Wein continues. “Fujifilm has a long heritage in inkjet, and its imprinting solutions are tried and tested. They’re a strong and respected manufacturer and a financially robust and stable company that we know we can depend on over the long term.

“The fact that Fujifilm acquired Unigraphica in 2022 was also a factor in our investment decision. The combination of Fujifilm and Unigraphica inkjet systems integration expertise was a very attractive proposition.”

“Finally, Fujifilm was also able to provide a bespoke system as large as one metre wide. No one else we spoke to was able to do that. And furthermore, compared with our legacy system, the Fujifilm imprinting system gives us more up-time, shorter set-up times and results in far less waste.”

Stefan Steinle, Sales & Business Development Manager, FUJIFILM Integrated Inkjet Solutions, Europe comments: “We’re delighted that a company of Paragon’s reputation and standing has chosen to invest in Fujifilm inkjet imprinting technology. We look forward to boosting Paragon’s productivity, and reducing its costs for many years to come.”

Fujifilm Imprinting Systems

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Case study: ApeosPro C Toner Press

Emmerson Press

Étude de cas

Emmerson Press becomes first UK investor in Fujifilm’s ApeosPro C toner press

Emmerson Press

Kenilworth, UK

ApeosPro C Series

Temps de lecture: 4 minutes

Points forts

  • Emmerson Press, a commercial printer based in Kenilworth, UK, has a history of being a first adopter of Fujifilm printing technology.
  • In 2016, they became the first UK printer to invest in the Jet Press 720S, later upgrading to the Jet Press 750S in 2019.
  • They are the first UK print business to invest in Fujifilm’s newly launched ApeosPro C810 toner press.
  • The decision to invest in Fujifilm’s ApeosPro C810 Toner Press was made after careful research and consultation with Fujifilm representatives.
  • Emmerson Press plans to use the new toner press for a wide range of applications, particularly ultra-short run work with quick turnaround times.
  • The investment is expected to provide a competitive edge, improve cost-efficiency, and complement their existing printing machines.

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Emmerson Press, a respected commercial printer based in Kenilworth, UK, has been first before. A Fujifilm plates customer for nearly two decades, in 2016 they became the first printer in the UK to invest in the Jet Press 720S, later upgrading to the Jet Press 750S in 2019. Now, in 2023, they have now become the first UK print business to invest in Fujifilm’s newly launched ApeosPro C810 toner press.

The deal was formally agreed at a Fujifilm event in London’s docklands in May to celebrate the launch of Fujifilm’s toner technologies in the UK.

Jamie Emmerson, Director, Emmerson Press comments: “We had an existing toner machine that had reached end of life and we were looking for a new solution. After looking at the market, the ApeosPro C Toner Press seemed like an ideal choice. We’d been researching it for some time but had to wait patiently until the official UK launch in April to speak to our Fujifilm representative. Following this conversation, we soon signed the deal. Despite it being newly launched in the UK, we did our homework and, being a long-term Fujifilm partner, we were confident that the technology had been tried and tested. Being the first in the UK to invest in Fujifilm technology once again, marks an exciting time for us and we are confident that this investment will give us a competitive edge.”

“We’ll use it to produce a wide range of additional applications – particularly any ultra-short run work that needs to be turned around instantly. And we’ll also use it as an office printer, which further helps with costs and efficiency. The small format size is very useful and overall, the price point, combined with the quality that can be achieved, makes this a truly exceptional machine that is well worth the investment.

“The ApeosPro C Toner Press complements our existing machines well. Fujifilm is a trusted partner, who we enjoy working with – and having multiple solutions from one vendor makes things much simpler to manage, and the support from the Fujifilm team is always second to none.”

Martin Fairweather, National Digital Business Development Manager, Fujifilm UK comments: “We’re delighted to be further expanding our partnership with Emmerson Press. Their trust in us as a long-term partner is demonstrated by them becoming the first in the UK to invest in Fujifilm technology once again. Following the official recent ApeosPro C launch earlier this year, we’re excited to continue to drive this momentum forward and Emmerson Press is the perfect company to gain maximum benefits from this technology.”

The success of the ApeosPro C Toner Press underscores our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of valued customers like Emmerson Press. By addressing the challenges faced by modern businesses, we have positioned ourselves at the forefront of the printing industry, offering a solution that not only elevates the standard of output but also streamlines processes and enhances sustainability.

ApeosPro C Series

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Case Study: Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed Printer

Soyang

Étude de cas

Soyang Open House event demonstrates award-winning capabilities of Fujifilm’s 5m Acuity Ultra R2 wide format roll-fed printer.

Soyang

Accrington, UK

Acuity Ultra R2

Temps de lecture: 4 minutes

Points forts

  • Soyang initially partnered with Fujifilm in mid-2022 to become a distributor of Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printers in the UK.
  • The highly respected wide format materials supplier formed the partnership as it looked to enter hardware sales.
  • Soyang hosted an Open House to showcase the Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printer in its new, purpose-built showroom.
  • The Soyang premises stocks more 1.5 million m² of printing solutions, including a huge variety of substrates.
  • Last year, Soyang bought a majority stake in Josero – a leading UK supplier of wide format printers, sign and print finishing equipment and printing supplies.
  • Josero has also partnered with Fujifilm to distribute the Acuity Prime flatbed printer in the UK.

As we branch out from being a wide format materials supplier into hardware, we felt that the ‘superwide’ 5m Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printer would be a perfect fit for our portfolio.

Mark Mashiter | Soyang

Watch the Video

Soyang, a UK-based partner of Fujifilm, recently hosted an Open House event to showcase the remarkable capabilities of the ‘superwide’ (5m) Acuity Ultra R2 roll-fed printer to customers in its showroom. As a highly respected wide format materials supplier looking to enter into hardware sales, Soyang initially partnered with Fujifilm in mid-2022 to become a distributor of the Acuity Ultra R2 in the UK. The company was impressed with the machine’s ability to deliver on quality, reliability and ROI.

The well-attended Open House took place in Soyang’s new, purpose-built Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printer showroom at its 70,000ft² head office and distribution centre in Accrington, Lancashire. In addition to the new showroom, Soyang stocks more 1.5 million m² of printing solutions, including a vast variety of substrates.

Soyang Europe Managing Director Mark Mashiter commented: “The Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printer is a revolutionary machine and is part of Fujifilm’s new blueprint for wide format. At Soyang, we’re historically very well known for finding solutions to 5m prints, so as we branch out from being a wide format materials supplier into hardware, we felt that the ‘superwide’ 5m Acuity Ultra R2 printer would be a perfect fit for our portfolio.”

He adds: “We already support a huge number of customers in the wide format sector with material sales. We’re pleased to be able to offer hardware too.”

Soyang’s Open House event was hosted in partnership with Josero, a leading UK supplier of wide format printers, sign and print finishing equipment and printing supplies. Soyang, which bought the majority shares of Josero last year, has also partnered with Fujifilm to distribute the Acuity Prime flatbed printer in the UK.

Soyang customer Vincent Randall, co-owner of MediaCo Group, commented: “It was a pleasure to attend Soyang’s Open House event and it was great to see the Acuity Ultra R2 in-person. The fact that Fujifilm is making machines and designing them around users’ needs – and around their inks – is significantly important to companies like ours.”

Launched in mid-2021 as part of Fujifilm’s new Acuity wide format range, the Acuity Prime flatbed and Acuity Ultra R2 Roll-fed printers have each won iF, Good Design and Red Dot awards for their impeccable design features.

Andy Webb, UK Wide Format Sales Manager at Fujifilm, notes: “Our Acuity wide format machines were all fully developed by Fujifilm to maximise usability and ROI. We’re confident that Soyang’s extensive industry knowledge, expertise and customer base – all demonstrated at its recent Open House event – will help us to boost Acuity Ultra R2 and Acuity Prime sales across the UK.”

Acuity Ultra R2

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Première mondiale : solution de nettoyage durable

Fujifilm reduces the carbon footprint of its inks with innovative cleaning technology at its Broadstairs ink manufacturing facility

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Temps de lecture: 6 minutes

  • Fujifilm switched to a more environmentally friendly cleaning technology at its Broadstairs ink manufacturing facility.
  • The company partnered with Terrafend, which develops and supplies sustainable cleaning solutions.
  • Fujifilm becomes the first company in the world to install an Ambimization® Proteus machine.
  • Ambimization® technology provides a revolutionary approach to cleaning by combining chemical and mechanical engineering.
  • The water-based cleaning fluids are non-flammable, non-carcinogenic and non-toxic.
  • Since installing the new technology, Fujifilm has significantly reduced its waste, carbon footprint and VOC emissions.

The FUJIFILM Specialty Ink Systems (FSIS) award-winning factory in Broadstairs, UK, manufactures high performance inks for a range of markets, including Uvijet wide format UV inkjet inks, and Sericol screen and flexo inks. The factory has implemented several sustainability initiatives over the last ten years and in the summer of 2022, it became the first ever company to trial the new-to-market Ambimization® fluids and Proteus pot wash machine from Terrafend.

Terrafend’s patented Ambimization® technology combines chemical and mechanical engineering to provide a revolutionary approach to cleaning. Ambimization® water-based fluids are non-flammable, non-carcinogenic and non-toxic. They work at ambient temperatures and can be used repeatedly before reaching end of life, thus reducing workplace risk, energy consumption, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

Last year, Fujifilm onboarded Ambimization® technology in its analogue ink department in Broadstairs to clean its UV, water-based and solvent-based ink pots. The use of Ambimization®, in turn enabled Fujifilm to implement the Proteus pot wash machine. These new innovations replaced legacy cleaning equipment that used chemical solvents.

The Proteus machine cleans pots with a water-based Ambimization® fluid in a time-efficient manner, facilitating cost and energy savings, as well as reducing the use of VOCs and creating a safer working environment. It is a sustainable cleaning solution that aligns with Fujifilm’s commitments to promote the use of green technology.

Moving from solvent to water-based cleaning

Fujifilm’s old pot cleaning process involved solvents being sprayed on the walls of the mixing vessels at pressures in excess of 70 bars, thereby removing traces of the ink and decontaminating the surfaces of the pots. This method used around 72,000 litres of chemical-based solvent and generated around 22,000 litres of waste per year.

After the cleaning process, the used solvent, saturated with ink, was pumped into a 24,000 litre storage tank at the Broadstairs site. When full, the tank was drained by a specialist contractor and the solvent waste was removed from the site, via road tanker, to a chemical re-processor. At the re-processor, the waste was separated through distillation, enabling 75% of the solvent to be returned to Fujifilm and used again. A limitation of this method was its inefficiency, with 25% of the material being lost in the recycling process.

In stark contrast, the new Proteus machine and water-based fluids, generate minimal chemical waste and VOCs. With Ambimization®, Fujifilm has managed to reduce solvent waste output at its Broadstairs site. This is not only better for the environment, but safer and more pleasant for the on-site Fujifilm team who handle the ink pots before and after cleaning. Fujifilm has reduced its VOC emissions by 91% since switching to the Proteus and Ambimization® process.

Reduced fire risks & energy consumption

An additional safety benefit of Ambimization® is that it eliminates fire risk – and this is further facilitated by the Proteus machine. With the traditional cleaning method, the solvent formed fine aerosol particles during each cleaning event, because of the high pressure deployed. This created an explosive (ATEX) atmosphere. Although ATEX equipment was installed and steps were taken by staff to reduce this fire risk, the risk still posed a threat.

Moving forward with the more sustainable cleaning solution provided by the Proteus machine, Fujifilm will be able to remove all ATEX rated equipment and save on time that would otherwise have been spent on ATEX health and safety measures within the pot wash area. The Proteus machine is also expected to reduce energy usage by 110,000 kWh per year, making it a hugely worthwhile investment.

Key takeaways

Fujifilm’s ink R&D and manufacturing facility in Broadstairs, Kent, has regularly made the news as a four-time winner of the UK’s Best Process Plant in 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017, but it is for its sustainability initiatives that it is now rapidly creating waves.

Fujifilm has paved the way for more ink and coating manufacturers to implement Ambimization® by being the first company in the world to pioneer the technology. Since Fujifilm onboarded Ambimization® – and the Proteus pot wash machine – Terrafend has introduced the technology to seven additional international major coating and composite manufacturers.

Switching to Ambimization® has delivered the following objectives:

  1. Provided a green / sustainable pot cleaning process
  2. Reduced VOC emissions at the Broadstairs site
  3. Reduced energy consumption by approximately 110,000 kWh per year during the pot cleaning process
  4. Future-proofed the Broadstairs site’s pot cleaning capability
  5. Eliminated the Broadstairs site’s DSEAR risk

Gary Burgess, Manufacturing and CI Manager at FUJIFILM Speciality Ink Systems, comments: “We’re thrilled to be the first company in the world to have trialled an Ambimization® Proteus machine, installed at our Broadstairs ink manufacturing site. Although the digital ink market continues to grow, screen and flexo inks are still used for a number of printing applications. We’ve taken a step to reduce waste and energy when it comes to cleaning our ink pots. During the process, we’ve also reduced VOC emissions and eliminated the site’s largest risk.”

Emily Cassius, Head of Business Development at Terrafend, adds: “This cleaning technology has huge potential to help leading brands – like Fujifilm – to operate more efficiently while reducing risk, waste and carbon footprints. We are pleased to have helped them boost their sustainability credentials and look forward to a continued partnership.”

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Case Study: Acuity Ultra R2

Oedim

Étude de cas

Wide format specialist Oedim boosts its Acuity ‘superwide’ printer fleet by investing in an Acuity Ultra R2 Inkjet Printer

Oedim

Jaén, Spain

Acuity Ultra R2

Points forts

  • Oedim invested in a 5m Acuity Ultra R2 to support business growth.
  • The company already had four Acuity Ultra presses.
  • Success with previous Acuity Ultra models and an excellent relationship with Fujifilm made it the obvious decision
  • The new press will be used to print advertisements, signage and building wraps.
  • The company prides itself on delivering versatility and value to its customers.
  • Oedim was pleased with the consistent good service that it received from Fujifilm.

Our investment in yet another Fujifilm printer has enhanced our confidence in the company as a trusted and reliable partner.

Miguel Ángel Gómez Cano | Managing Director, Oedim

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Spanish wide format specialist Oedim has once again partnered with Fujifilm to expand its fleet of Acuity wide format printers to increase productivity and support its growth. The company, which already owns four Acuity Ultra printers, recently invested in a 5m ‘superwide’ Acuity Ultra R2 Inkjet Printer. The new printer, which has been installed at its 20,000 square metre site in Jaén, Spain, will predominantly be used to print wide format advertisements on canvases, as well as signage for events and building wraps.

Established in 1996, Oedim is a wide format print specialist that prioritises personalisation and efficiency, while delivering on versatility and value. Many of its customers operate in the marketing and advertising sectors, and require wide format prints on substrates including vinyl, cardboard, tarpaulin, textiles and more.

Oedim sought another Fujifilm wide format printer because it was pleased with the quality and reliability of its existing Acuity Ultra machines. It was also very happy with the service it had received from Fujifilm.

The Acuity Ultra R2 Inkjet Printer, which is part of Fujifilm’s new range of wide format printers, is available in ‘superwide’ 5m and standard 3.2m configurations, and Mercury UV and LED UV configurations. Engineered from the ground up, with the operator in mind, it has won Red Dot, Good Design and iF awards for its impeccable design features.

Miguel Ángel Gómez Cano, Managing Director at Oedim, says: “At Oedim, wide format prints are our speciality. Many of our customers operate in the marketing and advertising sectors and require wide format prints – be it on textiles, vinyl, cardboard or tarpaulin. Our investment in an Acuity Ultra R2 has enabled us to prioritise personalisation and efficiency, while delivering on versatility and value – all while achieving growth.”

“Now, with an Acuity Ultra R2 included in our fleet of printers, we can offer our customers an even faster and more reliable service, particularly when delivering ‘superwide’ 5m prints. The machine is not only intuitive and easy to use, it is also reliable and offers exceptional quality. This is proven, as we use it predominantly to print on mesh and canvases and events canvases. ”

Cano says: “Our investment in yet another Fujifilm printer has enhanced our confidence in the company as a trusted and reliable partner.”

Joan Casas, Manager at Fujifilm Graphic Communications, Spain, comments: “We’re thrilled that the Acuity Ultra R2 is helping Oedim meet the needs of its customers and we thank them for being a loyal Fujifilm partner.” 

Acuity Ultra R2

Find out more about the Acuity Ultra R2’s ultra-high quality and versatility, and how its low ink consumption can improve ROI

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Case Study: Acuity Prime 30 Flatbed Printer

Nuneaton Signs

Étude de cas

Nuneaton Signs opts for Acuity Prime 30 Flatbed Printer to maximise business growth

Nuneaton Signs

Nuneaton, UK

Acuity Prime 30

Points forts

  • Nuneaton Signs provides meaningful employment and training for people with disabilities manufacturing traffic and commercial signage
  • The company invested in an Acuity Prime 30 flatbed printer to support business growth and product sales.
  • The Acuity Prime was chosen for its reliability and ability to produce high-quality prints, cost effectively.
  • The printer’s versatility and ability to print to multiple substrates was also a huge part of its appeal.
  • The Acuity Prime’s ease-of-use and quick setup was a crucial factor for team members with disabilities.
  • The Acuity Prime 30 has won Red Dot, Good Design and iF awards for its impeccable design features.

We visited Fujifilm’s Broadstairs site, and were given an extensive demonstration of the Acuity Prime 30 Flatbed Printer, which turned out to be the ideal printer for our business’s requirements.

Daren Hollins | Nuneaton Signs

UK-based social enterprise Nuneaton Signs has invested in a Fujifilm Acuity Prime 30 flatbed printer to support its business growth and product sales. The company, which was established in 1982 in Nuneaton, UK, manufactures traffic signage and signs for a wide variety of commercial applications, whilst providing meaningful employment and training for people with disabilities, which affect 71% of its employees.

Daren Hollins, Head of Procurement at Nuneaton Signs said the company sought a new flatbed printer to speed up the production of its signs and manufactured goods. The company chose the Acuity Prime 30 because of its reliability, its ability to produce high quality prints and because it was in line with the company’s budget.

Hollins explains: “We went out to tender with various companies and we chose Fujifilm because we were impressed with the cost and efficiency of its inks, the cost of this printer and how overall, it was able to deliver in terms of quality and reliability – all while meeting our financial criteria.”

He adds: “It is two-and-a-half times faster than the previous printer we used for the same types of jobs. It is also quick to set up and easy to use – which is particularly important for our team members with disabilities.”

Hollins highlights that Fujifilm’s exceptional ink quality has enabled Nuneaton Signs to print high quality jobs on a variety of substrates. With a focus on the most sustainable substrates, Nuneaton Signs prints on: polypropylene; 100% recycled and recyclable cast acrylic sheets; polyester sheets; premium fibre structure paper board; recyclable aluminium composite material; lightweight foam board and many others. He also says that Fujifilm provided excellent training and support, further enhancing his trust in the brand.

Engineered from the ground up, with the operator in mind, the Acuity Prime 30 – released in 2021 as part of Fujifilm’s new blueprint for wide format – has won Red Dot, Good Design and iF awards for its impeccable design features.

Hollins continues: “We visited Fujifilm’s Broadstairs site (in Kent, UK), and were given an extensive demonstration of the Acuity Prime 30, which turned out to be the ideal printer for our business’s requirements. The service provided by Fujifilm was excellent and efficient. When the machine was installed, it was ready for use – factoring our training – within a week.”

Andy Kent, Division Manager, Fujifilm UK, adds: “We value all of our customers and their business requirements. We’re particularly pleased to see that our printer is supporting Nuneaton Sign’s team members with disabilities – ultimately enhancing their independence.”

Social enterprises like Nuneaton Signs trade for a social purpose and reinvest or donate a percentage of their profits to further their cause. In the UK, there are around 100,000 social enterprises, which employ nearly 2 million people.

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