Esko and Global Inkjet Systems (GIS) are to collaborate to create what is claimed as the, ‘broadest ecosystem for digital package printing.’
This will see Esko combine its workflow and brand colour management expertise with the inkjet expertise of GIS.
Esko has extensive experience in digital print development having supplied a digital front end (DFE) turnkey option, including brand colour management and RIP technology, for more than 10 years to several leading press manufacturers. GIS is a supplier of datapath electronics, ink delivery systems and print control software, alongside capability in scanning and direct-to-shape inkjet print systems.
By combining the DFE and workflow automation expertise of Esko with the inkjet electronics and Atlas software capabilities of GIS, the two companies can together offer a complete system, from print job creation to the optimisation of print quality, through precise printhead control.
This enables machine builders to develop and deploy tailored systems to meet the needs of their customers. End user productivity is said to be enhanced through streamlined, integrated and automated workflows harnessing technologies, products and services from both parties. These systems can then be enhanced or modified to meet changing production needs.
Chuck Ravetto, vice president and general manager, suppliers at Esko, commented, ‘We know that digital press manufacturers are seeking to reduce development times of their presses. By using this integrated solution resulting from our partnership with GIS, they will get innovations to market faster. At the same time, packaging converters investing in digital press capacity will benefit by having more standardised and robust on press solutions for workflow, colour management and device compensation.’
GIS managing director Nick Geddes added, ‘Combining the packaging management, pre-press automation and DFE expertise of Esko with the industrial inkjet capabilities of GIS creates a unique ecosystem for packaging and label digital printing, not seen elsewhere. Our high-speed single-pass inkjet systems, offering very fast screening technologies and closed loop image quality control for missing nozzle compensation and printhead density correction, fit seamlessly into the Esko workflow creating a powerful advantage for the digital print sector.’
Mr Ravetto continued, ‘Whether for short-run label production, fast turnaround of promotional packaging work or efficiently handling a spike in demand, meeting the delivery deadline as expected by the print buyer is of paramount importance to business success. The combined capabilities of Esko and GIS create a level of integration that extends beyond the digital press and reduces complexity for everyone involved, driving efficiency and productivity when its needed most.’
