Epson has purchased shares in venture company Cross Compass Ltd. and has begun a partnership focusing on artificial intelligence (AI).

Cross Compass, established in 2015, sees artificial intelligence as a next-generation core technology. It uses deep learning techniques to analyse data, provide AI consulting services, and develops and provides algorithms and neural networks. Cross Compass has earned a particularly strong reputation among its customers in the manufacturing industry.

Cross Compass also provides Manufacturing-IX (M-IX), an integrated development environment (IDE) for the manufacturing industry that enables easy implementation of AI without requiring AI expertise.

Epson, as stated in its Epson 25 Corporate Vision, seeks to transform the future of manufacturing by strengthening its business infrastructure as a manufacturing company, driving advances and efficiency improvements in manufacturing and production control, and innovating manufacturing processes. The development, application, and implementation of AI are seen as critical for achieving this vision.
By forging capital and business ties with Cross Compass, Epson seeks to combine the unique technologies of both companies to achieve business synergies that will drive manufacturing process innovations and advances in product intelligence.
 
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Well over 100 guests were treated to an outstanding experience last night when they became the first in the country to explore Océ Australia’s expansive new Customer Experience Centre at its head office facility in Clayton.

The impressive facility, which the company says has been designed to ‘inspire the world of print, to print the world’, takes up most of the ground floor of the building which has been transformed to showcase an inspirational product range while providing a ‘best in class’ customer experience.





Craig Nethercott, Océ Australia’s Managing Director, was clearly delighted with the realisation of his vision as he welcomed guests to the new facility, saying the launch event represented the culmination of a long and exciting period of planning and development, and a company-wide commitment to building stronger customer relationships.
The result of these endeavours is an open, welcoming and innovative space that reinforces the Australian arm of the Netherlands-based print leader at the forefront of its global network – but was designed with just one person in mind: the Océ customer.

“Océ’s vision is to ‘inspire the world of print, to print the world’ – and in this Customer Experience Centre we are bringing the very best print technology to our world-leading print service providers right here in Australia, so that they can explore the possibilities for their own businesses,” Nethercott said.





Using a range of flexible and rigid media, the team illustrated the versatility and superiority of their products, producing a diverse array of applications on the spot, while more were on show in what Nethercott calls the ‘Ideas Lab’ – a space packed full of inspirational applications designed to get print service providers thinking ‘outside the box’.

“In an increasingly competitive market, innovation is important for two reasons,” he said. “Firstly, it gives you a point of difference – something to take to new prospects and a reason to go back to your existing customers. Secondly, it adds value, allowing you to improve profitability with higher-margin products.”

Those high-value products are very much in evidence in the new Centre. The glass entry doors feature printed decals and lead directly into the Ideas Lab’s, which is dominated by a floor-to-ceiling, seductively tactile, faux-brick wall created using Océ’s dimensional Touchstone print technology.





Available only on Océ Arizona printers, this technology has made a major impression recently at local and international shows, including winning a prestigious European Digital Press Association (EDP) Award at FESPA recently.

Printed coffee cup holders and ceramic tile coasters adorn a range of print-topped tables and even a printed canvas ottoman, bathed in the glow from a lamp with a printed shade. Vibrant posters produced on the Océ ColorWave printer using a number of different media provide a practical illustration of the different effects which can be achieved.
The unrivalled media versatility of Océ’s printer range is further demonstrated in the CEC’s showpiece – a multi-media printed wall featuring everything from acrylics and MDF, to glass and ceramic tiles, display boards and corrugated iron. The company has even printed a pair of thongs and an electric guitar to demonstrate the potential.
And it’s not all about wide-format. Océ’s innovative continuous feed and sheet fed inkjet presses haven’t been forgotten, with plenty of applications created on these devices also showcased at the facility.

“The Ideas Lab is central to the concept of this Customer Experience Centre – it demonstrates in practice how ideas and inspiration can be translated into a profitable reality using Océ technology,” Nethercott says.

“Here, our technical experts will push our products to the limit to create exciting new applications, and our customers can come to gather ideas, see our technology in action, and talk to product specialists about how it can create new opportunities for their businesses.”

In an adjacent, glass-panelled area, vistors could see the company’s range of market-leading machines from both the Display Graphics (DG) and Technical Document Systems (TDS) ranges in action – and what a line up it was.

Headed by the flagship Océ Colorado 1640 roll-to-roll printer featuring the company’s revolutionary UVgel technology and an Océ Arizona 1380 model from its recently-released 1300 range it also features a ProCut digital cutting system – all powered by ONYX end-to-end PDF workflow software and ProCut digital workflow and cut preparation software, and integrated Océ Arizona Xpert self-learning technology. ColorWave and PlotWave printers, for both display graphics and architectural, engineering and construction applications, were also on show.





Importantly, visitors to the CEC can also see straight into the company’s new, open plan office area where the full Océ Australia team is on hand to meet, greet and support customers – something Nethercott says is vital to building the kind of strong, long-term partnerships on which the company prides itself.

“This new CEC is at the heart of our headquarters, providing us with an unique opportunity to connect with our customers,” he says, indicating that the team is planning regular events and is also keen to welcome customers and prospects to meet there at any time by appointment, for what he calls the ‘full Océ experience’.

“We believe Océ is quite unique in the market, in that we understand that it’s not just about the product – it’s about what our brand means, the experience we create for and with our customers, and the vision we share, for our business and for theirs.

“Above all, it’s about the relationships we build. We want our customers to come here and explore new opportunities, but also to connect with as many of our people as possible, from operations and logistics, to our service personnel, the customer service team who are our first point of contact for sales and service calls, to our marketing team, finance and HR experts.





“We want our customers to get to know us – all of us – just as we like to get to know them, and their businesses, so that we can genuinely partner with them in their future success.”

The first swissQprint roll to roll printer premièred at Fespa 2019 and was at the same time honoured by the EDP Awards jury in the "roll to roll printer >320 cm" category.

Only just unveiled, and swissQprint's first roll to roll printer is already a prizewinner: Karibu is the recipient of an EDP Award in the "roll to roll printer >320 cm" category. The award ceremony took place on the periphery of the Fespa 2019 trade fair in Munich, where Karibu celebrated its world première. The jury praised the Swiss product's overall concept as well as specific details.

Jury verdict
The summary assessment from the jury's concluding report: "The machine convinces overall with its concept, but also because of the many well thought-out details. Especially impressive are the new and odourless inks, which have been specially developed for web printing. They are extremely flexible and can be used on many materials."

Konica Minolta Australia has announced the launch of Prokom, Konica Minolta’s independent global community of commercial print users, to its Australian customers. 

Prokom offers market research, information and practical tools to help commercial printers be more productive and more profitable. The Prokom program provides its members with the opportunity to share ideas, develop and grow efficient digital communication services, as well as express their own voices and cross-pollinate with others in the industry. Prokom has Konica Minolta customers from Europe, United States, and many other countries, as members. 

Prokom also provides opportunities for members to connect, learn and grow through networking events. They can actively engage with Konica Minolta’s senior management about their priorities for future design, functionality, technology and services while building profitable long-lasting relationships. 

Sue Threlfo, General Manager, Production and Industrial Print, Konica Minolta said, “Konica Minolta Australia’s decision to support Prokom locally demonstrates our continued investment in our customers, and the wider industry. Our aim is to build an environment for our customers to transform through education, networking and shared experience. Each month, the Prokom team identify a relevant topic that is designed to support our customers to grow or ideas for effective management their business.  Konica Minolta also sees it as a way to aid in the development of cutting-edge industry relevant solutions.” 

There are significant management and operational benefits from being a member of Prokom including:

- make better-informed decisions based on the latest industry information and reviews
- network with other business leaders
- use resources better with business planning and project management tools
- create new business opportunities by improving sales and marketing activity
- run a better business with help and advice on managing cashflow, recruitment and operational improvement
- improve through e-learning courses
- save time and money by viewing the latest tips and tricks videos
- get advice from a global network of other Konica Minolta users
- acquire valuable insights and knowledge from product reviews and user forums.

To become a Prokom member, Konica Minolta customers are invited to register here. A valid Konica Minolta serial number is required upon registration. 

Two T370HDs will expand the company’s high-quality, faster-to-market, personalised direct mail offering

HP has today announced that IVE Group (ASX: IGL) subsidiary Blue Star Direct has chosen to expand and upgrade its digital fleet in Sydney with a new HP PageWide Web Press T370HD, in response to increasing demand for agile and high-quality digital printing.

Blue Star’s previous HP PageWide Web Press T300 has been relocated from Sydney to its Clayton facility in Melbourne, where the press was upgraded to a T370HD. The upgrade process is unique to HP’s PageWide Web Press series, and enables 80 per cent of the parts and materials to be reused while increasing the lifespan of the press.

The acquisition and upgrade has equipped Blue Star with HP’s High-Definition Nozzle Architecture (HDNA) technology, while expanding Blue Star’s HP PageWide Web Press capability to Melbourne, allowing the company to expand its service offering and customer base, which already includes many of Australia’s leading financial and retail organisations.

The HP PageWide Web Press T370HD’s HDNA technology empowers Blue Star to close the gap between conventional commercial printing and traditional inkjet production capability. Supported by a complete commercial printing production line, inclusive of inline priming, post coating and automated sheeting, the HDNA technology enables Blue Star to print on a wide variety of uncoated and coated substrates with top-of-class productivity and efficiency.

The acquisition comes eight years after the company became a pioneer HP inkjet customer in Australia, with its 2011 purchase of the HP PageWide Web Press T300. It says the decision to continue its long standing partnership with HP came down to quality, speed, and unique differentiation.

“Since 2011, we have used the high-quality output of HP PageWide technology, and its 30-inch print format, as a point of difference in the market, and we have enjoyed a lot of success as a result,” said David Veness, Group General Manager, Blue Star Direct. “This upgrade will deliver even greater print speeds, higher quality printing, and better performance through a combination of hardware and software upgrades.”

This collaboration has enabled Blue Star to become a market leader in direct mail – a marketing channel the company says has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with a 2018 Roy Morgan Research report finding that close to 70% of Australians read catalogues.

“The wealth of customer data now available to businesses, in conjunction with advancements in digital printing technologies, has fostered a renaissance in direct mail marketing,” said Veness. “With HP PageWide technology, we can create highly personalised and targeted marketing campaigns, which deliver a far greater return on our customers’ marketing investment.”

Digital printing is increasingly being utilised for print jobs traditionally dominated by offset printing, like direct mail, for its flexibility and customisability. In North America, 60 per cent of direct mail is forecast to be produced by digital printing by 2020, up from just 45 per cent in 2015.

“As direct marketing continues to trend towards data-driven personalisation, printing service providers require presses that offer mass customisation at a competitive cost, and on a variety of media options,” said Michael Gillis, Country Manager, HP Indigo and PageWide Industrial, HP South Pacific. “The HP PageWide Web Press T370HD delivers on each of these demands, while also offering outstanding image quality and enhanced productivity.”

HP’s PageWide Web Press solutions are ideal for personalised direct mail campaigns, but are also being utilised around the world for high-volume commercial printing, publishing, and corrugated packaging applications.

About HP

HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our portfolio of printers, PCs, mobile devices, solutions, and services, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com.

Roland DG is delighted to announce that the new TrueVIS VG2 series eco-solvent printer cutter has won 'Best Print & Cut Solution' in the prestigious EDP (European Digital Press Association) Awards. The TrueVIS VG2 was launched in March this year and drew large crowds on the Roland DG booth (Hall A5 Booth H10) at FESPA 2019 in Munich, Germany.

The winners of the EDP Awards are decided by an independent panel of judges from Europe's 21 leading trade publications, who evaluate the most exciting technical launches from the past twelve months based on their 'achievement, quality and cost efficiency'. When judging the Roland TrueVIS VG2, the panel said, 'Roland DG has not adhered to existing concepts, but has redefined product development'. The judges were particularly impressed by the system's breadth of colour gamut, optimised colour accuracy and colour reproduction capability, plus a host of technological advancements to deliver high-precision print and cut performance. 

Building on Roland DG's 35 years of manufacturing expertise, 16 generations of print and cut innovation and feedback from thousands of experienced users across the world, the TrueVIS VG2 wide format inkjet printer cutter has been engineered to meet, then exceed, the quality and production needs of today's most demanding print professionals. 

First, answering the need for faster turnaround times, the VG2’s stunning quality prints are ready to laminate and then immediately finish in just six hours* for true same day installation. Setting the new standard in head-turning print quality, the TrueVIS VG2 offers new Orange ink that expands the colour gamut even further, delivers incredibly realistic colour reproduction and enables accurate matching of corporate brand colours. The new TrueVIS TR2 ink offers optimised colour reproduction and greater realism to printed images, plus outstanding performance in terms of stretch, adhesion, rub resistance and outdoor durability.

The VG2 solution is also certified by some of the industry’s leading media suppliers: VG2 with TR2 ink is certified for long-lasting results under the 3M™ MCS™ Warranty. Plus, VG2 with TR2 ink is certified by the Avery Dennison™ ICS™ Performance Guarantee. TR2 ink is also certified GREENGUARD Gold for low chemical emissions and is safe for indoor graphic applications.

In addition, the VG2 is powered by feature-packed VersaWorks 6 RIP software that delivers an optimised workflow for efficient production. VersaWorks 6 fully supports PDF 2.0 and enables complex files to be processed directly in the RIP. 





All this, plus more than 40 intelligent and intuitive enhancements over the previous award-winning generation and unwavering reliability, backed by Roland DG's industry-renowned service and support. "We're absolutely thrilled to have won the EDP Award for ‘Best Print & Cut Solution’ with the new TrueVIS VG2," comments Gillian Montanaro, Head of Marketing Roland DG EMEA. "When we launched the VG2 just a few months ago we were ready to show the industry something special, a solution that could genuinely change print professionals' working lives in terms of colour quality, turnaround speeds, reliability, longevity of their output and much more. The EDP Awards are widely regarded as the most prestigious awards for the digital print business in Europe so the title of 'Best Print & Cut Solution' absolutely reflects how incredible this machine is."

Despite only launching in March this year, the TrueVIS VG2’s outstanding performance has already gained global industry recognition, having also been awarded the 2019 ISA Sign Expo® Innovation Award in the “Printer” category.

For further information on the award-winning TrueVIS VG2 series printer cutters, visit: www.rolanddg.com.au/vg2

Successful legal suit filed against Nazdar and its German distributor Zaro, shows that FUJIFILM Speciality Ink Systems Ltd takes the protection of its intellectual property extremely seriously.

Commenting on the ruling handed down by the Regional Court in Düsseldorf, Germany, Rob Fassam, R&D Director at FSIS said: "This sends a clear message to anyone thinking of infringing our intellectual property. We will continue to protect our investment by filing patents that cover our technology and we will take appropriate action against those who infringe.

"I am delighted that the Regional Court in Düsseldorf has ruled in our favour. We invest significant time and resource developing new and exciting technology that benefits the inkjet industry."

In 2017 FUJIFILM Speciality Ink Systems Ltd (FSIS) filed suit against Nazdar Co., US and Nazdar Limited, UK as well as its German distributor Zaro GmbH before the competent Regional Court Düsseldorf (docket nos. 4b O 22/17 and 107/17). FSIS claimed Nazdar had infringed its UV ink patents EP 1 803 784 B3 and EP 2 383 314 B3 in Germany by offering its 702 & 703 Series UV inkjet inks and declaring them to be chemically compatible with the original inks designed for Fujifilm's Acuity range of flatbed UV printers.

The patents on these inks protect specific inkjet ink compositions providing a range of properties including improved flexibility, jetting performance and adhesion.

In reaction to the infringement actions, Nazdar filed nullity actions against the patents in Germany before the German Federal Patents Court and asked the Regional Court Düsseldorf to stay the infringement proceedings. Furthermore, Nazdar contested infringement, but did also, in reaction to FSIS' patent claims, change the chemical composition of its UV inkjet inks. However, despite redesigning the inks, Nazdar continued to market its UV inkjet inks as 702 & 703 Series and failed to indicate to customers the change in chemical composition in a way that FSIS considered necessary to avoid patent infringement.

With its judgements, the Regional Court in Düsseldorf has now confirmed infringement, injuncted Nazdar and Zaro from offering, bringing to market and any further use of patent infringing UV inkjet inks. It has also sentenced them to pay damages and render account. The Court also approved FSIS's position that the change in chemical composition of the 702 & 703 Series is not sufficient to avoid infringement because Nazdar continues to market their UV inkjets inks as 702 & 703 Series without sufficient indication of the product change.

Finally, while without prejudice of the nullity proceedings at the Federal Patents Court in Munich, the Regional Court in Düsseldorf did not follow Nazdar's invalidity arguments and therefore also rejected the stay motion.

Nazdar/Zaro have filed appeals against the judgements. Irrespectively, the judgements remain provisionally enforceable under the condition that FSIS will provide sufficient enforcement security. A date for the appeal hearing has been set for 7th November 2019. A date for a hearing in the nullity proceedings has not yet been set.

FUJIFILM Speciality Ink Systems Limited is the Technology Centre of Excellence for UV curable ink within the FUJIFILM Inkjet Business Division. Its core skills are the development and manufacture of high performance UV curing inks that are used in many of the world's leading printers.

Electronics For Imaging, Inc. (EFI), a world leader in customer focused digital printing innovation, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement (the "Agreement") to be acquired by an affiliate of Siris Capital Group, LLC ("Siris") in an all cash transaction valued at approximately $1.7 billion. Siris is a leading private equity firm focused on investing and driving value creation in technology companies that provide mission critical solutions and are facing technology transitions.

Under the terms of the Agreement, which has been unanimously approved by EFI's Board of Directors, an affiliate of Siris will acquire all the outstanding common stock of EFI for $37.00 per share in cash. The purchase price represents an approximately 45% premium over EFI's 90 day volume weighted average price ended on April 12, 2019.

EFI may solicit alternative acquisition proposals from third parties during a "go-shop" period over the next 45 calendar days. EFI will have the right to terminate the Agreement to enter into a superior proposal subject to the terms and conditions of the Agreement. There is no guarantee that this process will result in a superior proposal, and the Agreement provides Siris with a customary right to attempt to match a superior proposal. EFI does not intend to disclose developments with respect to the solicitation process unless and until it determines such disclosure is appropriate or is otherwise required.

"We believe this transaction delivers superior and immediate value to our shareholders while providing us with a partner that can add strategic and operational expertise to our business," said Bill Muir, Chief Executive Officer of EFI. "We are excited to partner with Siris' highly experienced team on this next phase of growth for EFI."
Commenting on the transaction, Frank Baker, a Siris Co-Founder and Managing Partner, said, "EFI is at the forefront of the digital transition in the imaging and print industry, underpinned by a strong software heritage and culture of innovation. We believe that, by partnering with Siris, EFI will be well positioned to capture this transformational opportunity associated with increased digital inkjet penetration, industrial automation and software enablement. We are eager to partner with management to help the Company achieve its strategic objectives."

Commenting on the transaction, Al Zollar, a Siris Executive Partner, said, "EFI has a 30 year legacy of leadership in the digital imaging market, with strong brand equity and a rich history of pioneering innovative solutions for its customers. The Company's portfolio of mission critical products and services are united by a common thread of impressive technological enablement and software integration. I look forward to supporting EFI's strong team to help the Company anticipate evolving customer needs and drive new opportunities for innovation and growth."

EFI's Board of Directors has unanimously recommended that its shareholders adopt the Agreement with Siris. Subject to the go-shop, a special meeting of EFI's shareholders will be held as soon as practicable following the filing of the definitive proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and subsequent mailing to shareholders.

Subject to the go-shop, the proposed transaction is expected to close by the third quarter of 2019 and is subject to approval by EFI's shareholders, along with the satisfaction of customary closing conditions including antitrust regulatory approvals. The transaction is not subject to any financing conditions. Upon completion of the acquisition, EFI will become wholly owned by an affiliate of Siris.

EFI will file its quarterly report on Form 10Q reporting its first quarter financial results but does not intend to host a quarterly earnings call. EFI currently expects Q1 2019 revenue to be between $220 million and $225 million.

Equity financing will be provided by investment funds affiliated with Siris. Siris secured committed debt financing for the transaction from RBC Capital Markets, KKR Capital Markets LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Barclays, Credit Suisse, and Macquarie Capital.

Sidley Austin LLP is serving as corporate counsel, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as financing counsel, and RBC Capital Markets is serving as M&A advisor to Siris in connection with the transaction. Morgan Stanley & Co. and Greenhill & Co., LLC are serving as financial advisors to EFI, and O'Melveny & Myers is serving as its legal counsel.

For further information regarding the terms and conditions contained in the definitive merger agreement, please see EFI's Current Report on Form 8K, which will be filed in connection with this transaction.

Epson has won its first "Red Dot: Best of the Best" award for its large format printers in the Product Design category (Red Dot Award: Product Design 2019). In addition, five inkjet printers, one scanner and one projector model received Red Dot Awards. This year marks the third successive year that Epson products have been recognised in the Red Dot Award.

Details of the Epson products recognised with the Best of the Best award
SC-T5450/ SC-T3450/ SC-T3450N/ SC-T3400/ SC-T3400N/ SC-T5400 inkjet printers
 
These are high-speed, high-resolution large format printers (LFP) for printing drawings in official bureaus and architect studios or PoP printing in retail shops. We redesigned the LFP, conventionally used for special applications, with a UI identical to business printers and a simple and clean look that fits any office. It provides intuitive operation and maintains a clean office atmosphere. The large touch panel, warning LEDs, and buzzer let you see the status at a glance and give guidance for easy use. We also strived to cut assembly time, streamlining work by developing new legs assembled in three steps.
 
Created in 1955 in Germany, the Red Dot Design Award is organised by the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen design centre and is recognised around the world as one of the most prestigious awards in the design field. A jury of experts evaluates products announced during the past two years and selects the best designs based on nine criteria, including degree of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, ecological compatibility, and durability.
 
Manabu Kawahara, general manager of the P Design Department in Epson's Printing Solutions Operations Division, says, "I am thrilled. This award is the culmination of a true team effort to achieve product value that exceeds customer expectations. Moving forward, we will continue to provide our customers with designs that delight."
 
Details of Epson products recognised with the Red Dot Award
ET-M1100/ ET-M1120/ ET-M1108/ ET-M1128 inkjet printers





These are A4-sized monochrome inkjet printer that achieve unprecedented compact size by directly embedding the high-capacity EcoTank in the carriage. The totally new EcoTank design puts a single slit on a simple and clean exterior. You can intuitively check the ink level or open and close the tank cover. A unique shape was used for the bottle tip and inlet to prevent filling mistakes. Just insert the bottle - the printer automatically refills ink then stops. Low cost, it also lets you print easily as you go about your daily work.

ET-M1140/ ET-M1180/ ET-M2140/ ET-M3140/ ET-M3170 inkjet printers

These are A4-sized monochrome inkjets with a high-capacity EcoTank that enables up to 6,000 sheets on a single ink refill. The new eco tank design puts a single slit through a simple and clean exterior. You can intuitively check the ink level or open and close the tank cover. A unique shape was used for the bottle tip and inlet to prevent filling mistakes. Just insert the bottle - the printer automatically refills ink then stops. While low cost, it lets you easily perform various printing tasks and reduces downtime and waste.

ET-2710/ ET-4700/ L1110/L3100/ L3110/L3150/ L5190 inkjet printers

These are A4-sized colour inkjets with a high capacity EcoTank that lets you easily perform various printing tasks at low cost. We focused on operability to eliminate hassle and concerns about stains when refilling ink. Not only did we improve front access and the visibility of the remaining ink, we also used a unique shape for the bottle tip and inlet of each colour to prevent filling mistakes. The protruding shape expresses the performance of the high capacity eco tank, and the simple, round design around the tank gives an approachable and familiar feeling.
 
WF-M5799/WF-C5710/WF-C5790/WF-C5210/WF-C5290/WF-M5299/WF-M5298/WF-C579R/WF-C529R inkjet printers

These are A4-sized office inkjet printers that provide high ink capacity while saving space. Boasting a clean design that fits any office, the high capacity ink pack has been built into the unit to achieve a compact size that fits in narrow spaces. The change from conventional ink cartridges to high-capacity ink packs cuts the number of ink replacements and the environmental impact. We focused on operability and streamlining office work, giving the ink packs a simple connection shape for the handle and tray and including a sturdy ejection tray and a tilt panel with high retention and easy operation.
 
SC-T5150/ SC-T5150N/ SC-T3150/ SC-T3150N/ SC-T3100/ SC-T3100N/ SC-T5100/ SC-T5100N inkjet printers

These are full-colour large format printers (LFP) among the smallest in the world for use in offices, architect studios, schools, and retail shops. LFPs are conventionally used for special applications, but with UI identical to business printers and a simple and clean look that fits any office, we designed printers that make it easy for customers to buy their first LFP. For schools in particular we prioritised safety, reducing the outlet port to ten mm so that children cannot fit their fingers inside. The large touch panel and buzzer let you see the status at a glance and gives guidance for easy use.
 
ES-50/ ES-60W scanner

This is an A4-sized sheet-feed scanner. As more companies move away from paper, demand is increasing for mobile scanners that can easily digitalise various documents including photos or receipts both inside and outside the office.
With that in mind, we worked with engineers, improving portability to aim for the lightest weight and smallest size in the class to bring more customers a comfortable experience.

The final product helps prevent operating errors during transport, improves portability for easy use, boasts simple functionality, as well as boasting an attractive design.
 
EV-100/ EV-105 projectors

These projectors are to be used for lighting or video performances of products or exhibits in shopping centers or museums. To better show off the appeal of the product or exhibit, we focused on a simple design that melts into the surroundings. We removed all holes and wiring from the unit sides, which customers notice, for a clean design. The vents, which any projector requires, were hidden in the design as slits with identical patterns on the unit's front and rear. The cylindrical design, made to resemble a spotlight, enables you to install it on the ceiling without negatively affecting the atmosphere.

Please refer to www.epson.com.au and www.epson.co.nz for details of products and services available in Australia and New Zealand.

Effective immediately, the small business Instant Asset Write-Off for new or used assets has increased to $30,000!

Businesses with an annual turnover of up to $50 million can now instantly write-off a piece of equipment that costs up to $30,000 excluding GST, if acquired between 2 April 2019 and 30 June 2020.

The Best Time to Purchase a New Roland

If you purchase and install a new Roland DG machine before June 30 2019, you can instantly write it off in your 2018/2019 tax return. This is great news for the recently released TrueVIS VG2-540 and VG2-640 Printer Cutters, that come in under $30,000. 

Awarded the 2019 ISA Sign Expo Innovation Award in the "Printer" category, judges were impressed with the technological advancements, comprehensive colour choices, improved machine efficiency and increased print-and-cut accuracy of the VG2 Series. 

With Metamark products as instantly recognisable and widely varied as glass films, wall graphics and commercial vehicle and even V8 Supercar skins, Metamark is a well trusted name in self-adhesive vinyl that has more recently become something of a global vinyl manufacturer and distribution phenomenon. Our products have been available in Australia since 2004, and we have had high growth in the markets across Asia pacific, Europe and North America. We have products sold in more than 55 countries worldwide. 

Head of Metamark’s Asia Pacific region is Melbourne-based Paul Coniglio, who has worked in the signage and display industry for more than 15 years. He says “We offer a huge selection of self-adhesive films. We have a strong focus on high quality polymeric films for faster, trouble-free application of larger areas on flat or slightly curved surfaces, and so much more. And we take great care to work with our customers so they get the best possible product for their application.” Describing our product range as ‘immense’, Coniglio says that the key to the company’s success has been how Metamark and its partners help customers to select the right product for each application. “We always start with the application, for use in commercial fleets, boat signage, wall graphics or window graphics, for retail, events or promotional markets - and so much more.” 

Coniglio says he sees a tremendous opportunity in New Zealand for Metamark in partnership with PSP. “As part of our global growth strategy we’ve been keen to find the best partner possible to help us hit the ground running in New Zealand. When Dean Stuart rang me and told me he was joining PSP, I was pretty excited because he has so much experience in the industry. He can help build a modern supply business to suit the changing signage and print market. 

“The location of PSP’s facilities, their people and their passion for signage is what really stood out. Having Metamark available all across the country, matched with a detailed training programme, will ensure a new level of choice for New Zealand customers.”

This is backed up by Dean Stuart, who says that the link-up with Metamark takes PSP one step further to offering a complete service across the world of rigid, flexible and vinyl products. “When I joined PSP it was part of a drive to ensure that customers only needed to make one phone call to get the best range of rigid, flexible and vinyl products, save time and realise efficiencies. 

“For us, it’s all about bringing the parts together to match and work seamlessly as one, which we do with PSP substrates and Metamark vinyls. Furthermore, we have the machines to ensure that whatever your size requirements, we can meet them to the metre. Our link-up with Metamark is exciting for us because it means our customers get even more benefits. We’re a great match.”

For information, please visit www.psp.co.nz

At Dscoop Edge 2019, HP Inc. announced the expansion of HP PrintOS Marketplace, opening an ideas store to inspire HP print service providers (PSPs) to collaborate, innovate and grow, while implementing Industry 4.0 for automated printing of thousands of jobs a day.

New apps in the marketplace from HP and solution partners can also help HP print service providers increase productivity, streamline workflow and develop new digital print applications.

“PrintOS Marketplace is an open platform designed to spread innovation and help customers adapt faster to the complexities of the changing print market,” said Alon Bar-Shany, General Manager, HP Indigo, HP Inc. “HP PrintOS is empowering PSPs to be more productive, manage higher print volume, and automate and streamline workflow.” PrintOS gives PSPs control over print operations virtually anywhere at any time, simplifies and automates print production processes, and provides a scalable architecture of production-ready tools to grow digital business. Today, the cloud-based PrintOS has grown to more than 20,000 users since launching at drupa 2016. Users include owners of HP Indigo, HP PageWide and Scitex presses and HP Latex and HP DesignJet printers.

UK-based ProCo is printing thousands of profitable jobs a day with PrintOS. “Marketplace is going to be a game changer in how people are able to produce work in a digital print environment. Access to other print providers' applications means I don't have to reinvent the wheel for every project. And fundamentally, we're going to have access to thousands of partner apps in a cost-effective and quick way,” said Jon Bailey,  CEO, Proco.

Projects in a box

Resources in the new PrintOS Marketplace ideas store include projects-in-a-box for labels and packaging, commercial and photo printing.





More than 50 free projects and design tools are now available for download exclusively for HP PSPs using PrintOS. Ready-to-go projects include HP Mosaic and HP Collage packaging templates, seed patterns, sample files, and royalty-free images and icons. PrintOS members are also invited to share or sell their print ideas in the store, with the goal of housing hundreds and even thousands of items by drupa 2020.

New print production apps

An additional PrintOS Marketplace store for Applications features monthly, subscription-based apps from HP and solutions partners. The apps help HP customers win more business, increase press output, automate production, manage higher print volume, better control costs, and expand print offerings. The App store is expanding with new offerings from HP and solutions partners, including:

- Locr – a GEO services batch tool to easily generate personalised maps for adding the value of location to printed communications.

- MindFire - a marketing automation tool to help PSPs promote business with targeted campaigns.

- OneFlow - The AutoFlow solution automates manual prepress operations including artwork fetching, checking, fixing and manipulation.

- HYBRID Software - PACKZilizer is an intuitive and easy-to-use cloud-based application to prepare packaging files for production.

- PrintOS Jobs API: Enables streamlining of production-status and job-costing data such as substrate usage and time invested, from an HP Indigo digital press to a management system (MIS or ERP), to understand the true cost of completed jobs for more accurate quoting.

- PrintOS Composer: Helps printers save time by easily and efficiently composing variable data jobs, including HP Mosaic and Collage, of any size.

- PrintOS OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): Helps PSPs uncover opportunities for improving operations, reducing overtime, and saving costs, while increasing press utilisation.

- PrintOS Colour Beat cuts colour control time down to minutes per job, helps ensure colour consistency across presses and sites, and track colour performance from anywhere.

- PrintOS Site Flow: Enables to efficiently manage hundreds and thousands of jobs per day, all the way from automated order submission to pre-press, shop-floor management and shipping integration.

PrintOS Marketplace is also now launching a new Licenses Store for easy self-service download and licensing of off-the-shelf software solutions from HP solutions partners integrated with PrintOS. Solutions licenses available for purchase include:

- HP SmartStream Designer: a powerful, easy-to-use variable data printing (VDP) tool for users of HP Indigo, HP Latex, and HP PageWide technologies.

- Esko: DeskPack Essentials and ArtPro+, powerful tools that shorten pre-press of labels and packaging jobs.

- Memador: A photo enhancement solution that optimises and automates photo book creation with algorithms for face grouping, face detection and more.

- Hybrid Software: PACKz, the powerful PDF editor and CloudFlow, Hybrid Software’s prepress workflow solution.

- Tilia Labs: includes a bundle of Phoenix & Imposition AI workflow and imposition tools for labels and packaging, available later this year.

Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions strengthens its relationship with Premier Film Distribution as the new distributor in New South Wales and Queensland for its industry leading range of architecture, solar and safety window films.

The Avery Dennison range of window films for buildings include solar control films that can filter up to 85 percent of solar radiation passing through the glass and reducing energy consumption from air conditioning by up to 20 percent; safety window films for a layer of added security on glass doors or windows to hold shattered glass in place, thereby reducing the threat of injury and design films to help architects and designers transform properties.

“Comfort and security along with energy savings, sun control and privacy are important considerations for building owners and vehicle owners in Australia,” said Jordan Leach, Senior Business Manager, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions in Australia and New Zealand. “Avery Dennison is responding to our customers’ needs for fast delivery of our high-performance and durable window films with the appointment of Premier Film Distribution in New South Wales and Queensland regions.”

“Our team of experts are familiar with the needs of our growing network of partners,” said Greg Munro, Managing Director, Premier Film Distribution. “Together with our partner network, Premier Film Distribution has the capabilities to distribute innovative, high-performance products from Avery Dennison.”

Premier Film Distribution has been providing wholesale films to the tinting, graphics and printing industry in Australia since 1985. Customers can order stock on the phone at 07 3268 8450, via email at sales@premierfilmdistribution.com.au or shop online 24/7 at https://premierfilmdistribution.com.au/.

Over the years, Premier Film Distribution has developed a deep understanding of their customers’ businesses and value adding, which led to strong relationships with their customers. Premier Film Distribution are fortunate to call some of Australia’s most successful installation businesses their customers.

There was no hiding the smiles when Nicole and Carey Burt of Zoom Signs went to collect their brand new V8 Race Red 2018 Ford Mustang. The husband and wife team were the very happy winners of the 3M ‘Win a Ford Mustang’ promotion. 

The competition was open to anyone who purchased a 3M product from any Australian retailer or regular wholesaler/distributor. Having purchased a number of 3M products from Amari Visual Solutions, Nicole was encouraged by Carey to enter. 





“We changed over to 3M products after we were having problems with consistency and reliability of other branded products,’ said Nicole. “We are a small business but we are a busy workshop and don't have time to be repeating jobs when inferior products fail. So, we switched to AVS about a year ago and haven’t looked back. We use the best products first time round, our customers appreciate the quality of our work and we are confident in sending 3M products out.” 

Nicole entered a total of four times, but like most competitions gave it little thought after that. That was until she got an email in December last year saying that she was one of the prize winners.  

“We thought we had won tickets to the V8 supercar which there were 20 passes given as runners up prizes. We were very excited about that and were busy planning which race we would go to. We honestly didn't even give the major prize a second thought.” 

That would all change with a phone call. 

“We received a phone call about a month ago telling me that we had actually won the Mustang. I was in total disbelief and thought it was a cruel trick! Apparently all the blood rushed from my face and I just kept saying thanks you! After the call we all danced around the office yelling and cheering. Needless to say not much work happened for the rest of the day.”


(Chris Murphy Warwick Automotive, Carey and Nicole Burt Zooms Signs, Mitch Coleman Amari Visual Solutions, Debbie Amiradaki 3M Corporate Marketing, Mark Langdale 3M Automotive)


Debbie Amiradaki, 3M Marketing Manager for Australia and New Zealand said, “We are very happy for Nicole and Carey of Zoom Signs. The ‘Win a Mustang Competition’ was a way for 3M “to mark our association with Supercars and to celebrate the 2019 launch of Mustangs into the sport.”

“It’s always fun to run promotions such as this and great to see positive engagement with our customers. We would like to congratulate all the winners and thank them for their continued support”.

“We are so grateful to 3M for the win,” said Nicole. “We are just a normal hard working family that didn't ever expect to be driving a car like this.” 

For more information about 3M graphics and signage products, please visit www.3m.com.au/3M/en_AU/graphics-signage-au/

For more information about Amari Visual Solutions, please visit www.amarivisual.com.au

Sign Essentials Pty Ltd, Australian distributor of Impact CNC Routers and Lasers, is pleased to announce that they have appointed Bi-Wize Signage Supplies, based in Thomastown VIC, as their Victorian dealer.

Impact CNC was launched in Australia in mid-2011 and has quickly established an enviable reputation - offering an excellent mix of quality and affordability. Sign Essentials has placed multiple installations in the sign, aluminium fabrication, wood-working and educational sectors.  There are now well over 150 Impact CNC machines around Australia.  “Our clients love the fact that they can purchase a fully-featured router or laser at a great price with expert training, service and support” said Sean Strange, General Manager of Sign Essentials.  “We felt the next step was to partner with an established company in Victoria to help grow Impact CNC in that market.  When an opportunity came up with Bi-Wize it quickly became apparent that they were a great fit for our brand. They have 50 years’ experience in the sign and print industries and more than 20 years equipment experience. We know they will provide the experience and expertise purchasers will require.”

“Bi-Wize is pleased to be appointed as the Victorian dealer for Impact CNC Routers and Lasers and greatly appreciates the opportunity to work in partnership with such a well known, experienced and respected brand” said Steven Pollock, Managing Director of Bi-Wize.  “Machinery is now a vital component of the signage industry and through our partnership with Impact CNC we hope to extend our product range and services to continue serving the current and future needs of our customers. We are proud to be associated with a company that not only provides excellent quality and affordability in their products but who is remarkably professional and supportive.”

“We have introduced Impact CNC products to many different businesses over the last 8 years” tells John Williams, CNC Specialist from Sign Essentials. “They are producing some amazing work and cutting a huge range of materials.  We have proven Impact CNC offers the right mix of features, quality and price.  We look forward to working with Bi-Wize and their customers in Victoria.”


All industries will surely be impressed by the feature-packed Tornado model which Bi-Wize selected as their demo machine. It has just been installed in Melbourne and customers are invited to book a personal demonstration of the Impact CNC router today.


Alternatively check out the range of machines at www.impactcnc.com.au


Bi-Wize Signage Supplies can be contacted on 03 9465 1233 or by email at sales@bi-wize.com


Impact CNC enquiries in other states can contact Sign Essentials on 07 3865 2294 or by email at sales@impactcnc.com.au

It is no secret that Ricky is a proud supporter of Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA). For three years Ricky has sponsored a research fellow at the institute by donating a percentage of sales from the purchase of our extensive range of shade fabrics. This year, Ricky has decided to not only sponsor a research fellow, but to also become principal partner for the MIA’s biggest fund-raising initiative, Melanoma March. This includes Jay’s Longest Melanoma March, which sees Jay, a melanoma survivor, walking from Adelaide to Sydney via Melbourne over the course of 50 days.

Melanoma March is now in its eighth year. At each location around Australia, the Melanoma March events bring together the whole ‘melanoma community’. Not only is it to raise awareness and funds for melanoma research, it’s an opportunity to inspire others and remember loved ones.

Ricky Head of Marketing, Greg McKinley, wanted to extend the support Ricky offered to MIA. “When we learned that there was an opportunity to further support MIA & their biggest fundraising initiative, we were obviously very interested.” 

Melanoma is the most common cancer in young Australians (15–39 year olds) and kills more young Australians (20-39 year olds) than any other type of cancer.
Last year over 7,000 people from every state and territory in Australia supported their local Melanoma March events and we invite you to join us in 2019.
Check out all the details and register at: https://melanomamarch.org.au/ 

To find out more about Jay’s Longest Melanoma March go to: https://tourdecure.com.au/events/jays-longest-melanoma-march-2019/
Ricky and MIA are taking the steps together to end melanoma. Jump on board and join us.

Leading distribution companies Australian Visual Solutions (AVS), Amari Plastics and Chief Media have joined forces to offer their customers an expanded range of options following a strategic merger this week.

International parent company MM Plastics announced the merger today, with General Manager Steve Baker saying the resulting entity, Amari Visual Solutions, will bring the best of all worlds to its customers through an expanded product range and wider distribution network.

“We’ve been laying the groundwork for this since mid-2018, following the acquisition of Chief Media in 2015 and AVS in 2017,” he says. 

“With our customers needing access to a more diverse range of media and substrates to meet the demands of a dynamic market, it simply makes sense to offer our whole product range through every outlet.

“Also, while operating independently, the three companies have always shared a similar commitment to delivering a total solution to customers; quality products, responsive and knowledgeable support and excellent value for money. So, it’s a great fit.”

The combined product portfolio will give customers of all three original companies a single source of supply for a wide selection of high-quality substrates, signage media, printers, inks and accessories.

“AVS customers will now have access to an extensive range of quality substrates including Aluminium Composite Panels, PVC, Acrylic, Polycarbonate and Flute” Steve explains.

“Amari Plastics and Chief Media customers, in turn, will benefit from access to the huge range of wide format media, cut graphics and display media, as well as hardware, tools, accessories, inks and finishing solutions which were previously only available through AVS.”

Amari Visual Solutions will operate out of seven sites in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania, servicing clients including sign, display and POS companies, digital wide-format printers, screen and offset printers, commercial shop fitters, truck and trailer builders, industrial and manufacturing companies and acrylic fabricators.

“This combined network gives us an excellent supply base for customers around the country, providing not only fast and efficient local delivery, but access to the technical expertise and support of local product specialists.”

While the merger officially comes into effect on the 4th of March, Steve says the transition will be staged to avoid any disruption to customers. Rebranding of buildings and delivery vehicles will take place over the coming months.

“In the meantime, though, all local reps will be able to help with products from across the entire portfolio and, in the next few months, we’ll be releasing a new, combined product catalogue and launching our new website, www.amarivisual.com.au,” 

“We are really encouraged by the enthusiastic response to this merge by our customers and look forward to providing a great portfolio of quality products accompanied by fast and reliable service to the market that has been so supportive of our activities in the past.”

Screen today announces that Campaign, a Bertelsmann Printing Group subsidiary, specialising in one2one customer communications, has invested in a second Truepress Jet520HD press to support the growth of its direct mail services. The investment brings the total number of Screen high-speed inkjet systems to three following earlier installations of the Truepress Jet520ZZ and its first Truepress Jet520HD.

Headquartered in Gütersloh, Germany, Campaign believes that this latest investment will create new business opportunities and strengthen its competitive position. With the help of the Truepress Jet520HD, Campaign is able to send high-quality personalised mail to its customers. In combination with shorter turnaround times, a significant increase in conversion rates has been achieved per campaign.

Engineered for short print runs, the Truepress Jet520HD is designed with personalisation in mind. The press is fully integrated with Screen’s workflow software, EQUIOS, boasting a vast gallery of preloaded templates. This, along with the system’s rapid start time, enables Campaign to optimise uptime, maximise throughput and increase profit margins.

According to Nik Bockmann, Managing Director at Campaign, this efficiency-enhancing capability was an integral factor in deciding to invest in the systems.

He explains: “As a print provider, we need the flexibility to react to diverse customer demands the very same day. The Screen presses offer us this and so much more. For example, we have the versatility to print on a wide range of substrates. This opens the door to a vast gamut of different applications.

“In regard to direct mail, we can produce highly customised, premium prints, cost-effectively and extremely quickly. When our customers can transform an idea into a flawless printed product in their customer’s hand in very little time, there’s a significant positive impact on their conversion rates, which in turn helps us secure repeat business.”

Bockmann explains: “Screen’s presses allow us to achieve near-offset quality and production costs while delivering the inherit benefits of digital printing. Our latest additions further cement our position as a leading innovator and expert in direct mail and one-to-one communications.”

Bui Burke, Screen Europe Senior Vice President Sales, concludes: “We are delighted that Campaign has invested in its second and third Screen presses. The company’s continued adoption of our solutions demonstrates how our presses are empowering print providers to realise their business objectives. Offering enhanced production, high-quality prints and consistent productivity, we are seeing more and more companies successfully integrating our solutions within their businesses.”

www.screenaust.com.au

There's always something new in the printing world. In the US, Overnight Prints introduced cookie printing. The online print provider will be serving an assortment of ready-to-eat custom printed cookie products as part of its print marketing materials and services. Adding the baked treat to its menu provides a sweet edible option for gift giving, event catering, party favors and promotional giveaways just in time for Easter and Mother’s Day.

“Custom printed cookies make any event even more meaningful and memorable, especially a once-in-a-lifetime occasion like a first birthday or 50th wedding anniversary,” said Janell Awong, brand manager, Overnight Prints. “What makes everyone’s favorite sweet treat even better is adding that personal touch like a unique photo or special message.”

Home baked style cookies can be personalized with edible images, photos, logos and short messages in full color. Each gourmet vanilla-flavored sugar cookie is hand-decorated with royal icing. Cookies are individually wrapped and delivered fresh from the bakery in quantities of 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96 or 120.

Custom printed cookies are offered in 16 assorted shapes and sizes. Ranging from 3˝ to 8˝, circle and square shapes can be ordered in 3-inch, 3.5-inch, 4-inch and 8-inch sizes. Rectangle-shaped portrait cookies are available in 3-by-4, 3-by-5, 4-by-6, 5-by-7 and 8-by-10-inch sizes. Heart-shaped cookies come in either 3-inch, 3.5-inch or 4-inch sizes.

The personalised pastries cater to food menus at personal and professional functions, such as family gatherings and celebrations, holiday parties and for corporate gifting. Cookie printing is also ideal for promotional events like conferences, meetings and trade shows, and as party favours at weddings, anniversaries, graduations, birthdays, baptisms and retirement parties, etc.

www.overnightprints.com

A new robotic system to make aircraft painting quicker, cheaper and more environmentally friendly has just made its debut at ZAL Innovation Days.

Dutch robotics specialist Xyrec, which has developed the Automated Paint Robot (APR) in collaboration with Airbus and Southwest Research Institute, gave a live demonstration of the system that it says can reduce time in the paint shop from 16 days to 5 days.

The APR is able to print any aircraft livery design on an aircraft fuselage by automatically orienting itself during the painting process. According to Xyrec, the end-to-end painting process can sand the fuselage, clean it after paint has been stripped, spray primer and clear coatings, dry clear coatings in a mere two hours (compared to the 14 hours it currently takes) and then direct print a new design. Xyrec says the cleaning process can also be used for cleaning of aircraft during A and B checks.



Due to the APR’s ability to significantly reduce overall painting time, Xyrec says the robot can reduce labor costs by 80% while also saving up to 30% of paint, which provides environmental benefits. In addition, the company says the robot ensures higher predictability and paint quality.

During the demonstration at ZAL Innovation Days, Xyrec showed off the APR’s newest feature, which uses inkjet technology for digital printing rather than paint. The technology was illustrated by printing a large digital image on an Airbus A320 fuselage. According to the company, the printer technology enables airlines to be more creative with livery designs because it allows intricate decoration of a full aircraft faster and more efficiently than via manual masking and spray guns.

The APR began development three years ago and Xyrec says it will be available commercially in 2020, with a direct print feature coming in 2021.