Europe’s first KM-1e lands in Germany

Global accessories firm Hama has become Europe’s first customer for Konica Minolta’s newly-launched AccurioJet KM-1e production press.

AccurioJet KM-1e represents the next incarnation of Konica Minolta’s B2 KM-1 UV inkjet press, with an increased format size, reduced maintenance requirements and the ability to work with a wider range of media, including transparent and coloured materials.

The installation at Hama, completed during lockdown at the company’s headquarters in Monheim, Germany enables the specialist in mobile, PC and photo extras to print on almost any substrate in high quality to meet increasing demands from brands and retailers for a better ‘product experience’, achieved through high value-added packaging.

The AccurioJet KM-1e B2+ sheet-fed UV inkjet digital colour production press replaces two existing digital machines. It can print on substrates from thin 70g paper up to 0.6mm-thich boards.

An important factor in the investment decision was the business case put forward by Konica Minolta to substantially increase volumes by identifying additional applications such as folding carton box production. An example includes the consumer-focused packaging used for memory sticks and phone covers, some costing between €30-50 each when personalised. Previously outsourced, folding carton box production has now been brought back in-house at Hama.

The investment has also opened up new creative opportunities in blister and light packaging for short-run, specialty products for Hama. High-volume blister packaging production will be an important application for the AccurioJet KM-1e.

Manuel Eder, deputy head of packaging at Hama, said, ‘As one of the world’s leading distributors of accessories, we work at maximum speed to ensure fast deliveries and optimal stock provisioning. Packaging is becoming ever-more important for consumers’ ‘product experience’. That’s one of the many reasons why the AccurioJet KM-1e represents a significant step forward for our business. Digital production is now also highly reliable.

‘We have plans to implement new applications in partnership with Konica Minolta, such as flood varnish and spot varnish. Konica Minolta’s consultative and professional approach has been highly valued, as well as their service support. Identifying with us on how to increase the volume on the machine justified the investment case even more. This is the start of a partnership we know will have many benefits for both sides.’

Hidetoshi Omo, head of the KM-1 Center of Competence at Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe, commented, ‘The AccurioJet KM-1e will provide infinite business expansion possibilities for Hama to pursue high value-added products. This is crucial where high quality and reliable production, extensive media capability in areas such as premium product packaging. Developing high value-added products for everyday retail goods such as phone covers is an interesting approach to the market. The successful installation by experienced teams was completed during the coronavirus lockdown. It is another example of how we provide expertise and work closely in partnership with customers.’