Packaging
Vila Display plots growth using the Xeikon press for packaging and display production
Friday 30. October 2009 - Breda-based label specialist, Vila Etiketten, has broadened its portfolio with the launch of its subsidiary company, Vila Display. A continuation of the acquired Vision One, Vila Display is using a digital Xeikon press to increase its presence in the fast-growing short-run display and packaging market.
Since 2000 Vila Etiketten has specialised in printing a wide range of labels for a variety of market segments. “The future is digital printing,” says Robbert Vugts co-owner together with Ton Reichardt of Vila Etiketten. “Our strength is short-run work and very fast delivery times. We always deliver within five working days, which means our digital presses are becoming increasingly busy.”
In May 2009 Vila Etiketten took over Vision One under the name Vila Display. “Vision One began producing packaging in a single-copy print-run in 2000 on a Xeikon press, something that was unique at the time. Back then the company was also using the digital press for short-run label printing.”
“The trend in the label sector for digital printing is mirrored in the promotional print market. The recession has accelerated the adoption of digital production – customers are staying away from large stock and have discovered the significant advantages of printing on demand.”
“In the early years there was a lot of scepticism surrounding the quality of digital printing,” adds Vugts. “But with digital technology advancing rapidly, these concerns no longer exist. Digital printing is now considered not only acceptable but in many cases preferable. The print quality is excellent and turnaround times are getting faster all the time, making it ideal for short-run and last-minute jobs. Graphics companies that have not incorporated digital into their set-ups will not enjoy the huge commercial advantages it brings and risk being left behind by their competitors”
Vila Display is focusing specifically on producing promotional print work with its Xeikon press, such as displays and packaging. “Vila Etiketten has a broad customer base. We can now offer these customers promotional print work based on the short-run fast-turnaround model. For example, this might involve a print run of 50 displays, which would be cost ineffective for a conventional printer. We can also produce top-quality proof copy for such displays, as well as new packaging.”
The Xeikon digital press is perfectly suited to Vila Displays production work: “The system has ample 500mm width, and because printing takes place endlessly from the roll, you can print large formats quickly and easily. And the machine is equipped with a UCoat installation, which enables us to apply an excellent laminate in high gloss or proper matt, as required. This protects the print work and ensures it does not break at the folds.”
Vugts believes the Xeikon press has a central role to play in Vila Displays growth strategy: “We plan to expand our operations and add to our portfolio using the new generation of Xeikon presses. For example, with an extra colour and an even wider range of materials. And we might produce labels again ourselves. Whatever we decide to do, were ready for the digital future.”