LFP - Large-Format-Printing
GFX INTERNATIONAL ADDS FAST TURNAROUND, MULTIPLE VERSION PRINT CAPABILITY WITH ONSET S70 UV DIGITAL FLATBED PRESS
Wednesday 02. June 2010 - Multiple Version Print Runs Expected to Be Completed 10X Faster than Screen or Offset Printing
FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the latest sale of an Inca Onset S70 UV Digital Flatbed Press to GFX International based out of Grayslake, Ill. GFX specializes in the production and implementation of in store graphic programs for a variety of retailers and brands, and anticipates the addition of the Inca Onset S70 will expand its offerings by giving clients more options related to variable data and version programs. The Onset S70 will also allow GFX to offer a cost competitive solution for these types of programs by significantly speeding up job production and reducing set-up time and materials.
“A project that would have taken an estimated 300 hours of total production time in the screen print process can now be completed in 30 hours with the addition of the Inca S70,” said Mark Taylor, COO, GFX International. “Screen printing a quantity of 10,000 24″x30″ posters containing 250 versions of varying amounts would require 63 different 4-up press forms. With 63 different forms running on multiple screen presses it is difficult to maintain consistency, which is a key requirement when the output will be displayed side-by-side. Since more of our work requires versioning, particularly for our retail franchise customers operating in different regions,, the Onset S70 will offer a cost, capacity and speed benefit to our customers that frankly no other press on the market can match.”
To optimize production, GFX plans to use the Inca Onset S70 mainly for short to medium press runs as well as longer press runs that require versioning or variable data, freeing up screen presses for larger print runs. In addition, by producing only what is needed, GFX anticipates the Inca Onset S70 will provide a digital solution that will also help customers spend wisely, avoiding unnecessary overruns.
“We have seen customers place larger than needed offset and screen orders in an effort to reduce their per piece unit cost often results in wasted materials and the need for more warehouse space,” said Taylor. “Print materials have a shorter lifespan than ever before as brands and retailers respond to changing customer needs and competitive offers. We anticipate that the Onset S70 is going to give our customers more options – ordering the exact quantity needed to keep up with the market while reducing waste and freeing up valuable warehouse real estate.”
Taylor also looks forward to the cost and value that the Inca Onset S70 will bring to GFXs printing business. Savings are expected by reducing cost of materials and set-up time making it a smart investment for the future. “The Inca Onset S70 is going to allow us to present new ideas and suggestions to our customers especially where versioning is concerned. We will be in a position to offer better solutions, respond quicker and provide more effective promotional campaigns for a wide variety of customers,” Taylor explains.
“GFX International has been doing business with the Sericol Unit of Fujifilm for the last twenty years. We value our relationship with GFX and the investment in the Onset S70 sets the stage for continued growth of our long-standing relationship,” said Mitch Bode, general manager of the Sericol Unit, Graphic Systems Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “We look forward to working with GFX to help them integrate the Onset S70 into their operation and present new production options for their customers.”
Taylor credits the long term Fujifilm relationship with the two-way communication the businesses have established over the years. “Whenever we look at investing in new equipment we look at everything the market has to offer. We can always count on Fujifilm to inform us of exactly what a piece of equipment can and cannot do for the growth of our business,” said Taylor. “This has helped us to really choose the right piece of equipment every time. Our open communications also provides us the opportunity to provide input and discuss how Fujifilm can improve their products by adding new features and functions. I trust Fujifilm and consider them a partner in my business.”