What it takes to excite label printers and converters to use Mark Andy machines in the Indian sub-continent is the machine’s easy-to-operate platforms that do not require skilled operators. Among those Mark Andy machines that up the game of FIG’s distributorship are Rotoflex systems that offer state-of-the-art inspection, slitting, rewinding, and die-cutting solutions. Mark Andy is progressing on all technological fronts—automation is one key area.     

“We are intensely focusing on automation to improve the overall performance of our machines,” Florian Stroe, sales manager, Mark Andy, says. 

He adds, “It involves better tools for efficiency; better ergonomics for easier operation; and our sMArt link software for production control and ProWORX Label Suite for easier imposition.” 

Mark Andy’s hybrid machines like Digital Series HD (DSHD) are now automated for users who like to move from flexo to hybrid printing for short-run production. The company’s workflow software and suite make its Evolution, Performance, and Pro Series flexo machines quicker and easier in setting up jobs. 

Gourav Roy, director, Flexo Image Graphics (FIG), says flexographic printing is increasingly dominating over gravure because of the technology’s advantage in short-run production and cost-efficiency. 

“What we see as a new trend these days is about hybridisation of flexo plus digital, which makes more value and flexibility. About the trending innovations and most cost-efficient products, RFID and linerless labels are at the forefront,” he adds.    

(l-r) Florian Stroe from Mark Andy with Gourav Roy of FIG

On flexo’s advantages, Roy asserts, “This technology offers excellent print outputs using water-based as well as new generation low migration inks. That’s the reason why we call flexo rather a more environment-friendly technology.” He further mentions, “In addition to machines, products, and technologies, FIG and Mark Andy give accurate training to operators and supervisors.”

Regular in every leading trade expo, Mark Andy successfully participated in Labelexpo Europe 2023 with the live showcases of three key products, which included the global premiere of a new Pro Series flexo press and two hybrid presses — inkjet-based Digital Series HD (DSHD) and toner-based Digital Pro MAX. Mr Stroe says the live demo of the DSHD was a big attraction on all 4 days of the show with 4 live demos from Mark Andy.  

According to Stroe, Labelexpo India 2024 will be yet another important show and a strategic meeting point where Mark Andy and FIG are welcoming their converter friends to discuss new challenges they currently face and technologies to overcome the same. “We aim to grow together with our converter friends,” he mentions.                        

(Visit FIG and Mark Andy at Stand No C13 in Hall 9 at Labelexpo India 2024, November 14–17, India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi-NCR.)   

On a customer's site
Prospects and predictions
Gourav Roy and Florian Stroe, share future prospects and predictions. 

What do you say about the near future’s technological challenges and success ahead?

Gourav Roy: FIG always sees Mark Andy’s flexibility as the key to success. As SKUs continue to rise, run lengths decline, and demands for fast set-up times increase, label converters will need to be agile with their production capability, whether they use traditional flexo or digital press, but most likely with a combination of both – a hybrid platform!

Florian Stroe: With more than 300 hybrid installations worldwide, Mark Andy is in the unique position of offering a press suitably designed for all sections of the label market. It could be simply a Digital Pro PLUS or a sophisticated Digital Series HD (DSHD). In the 13-inch web width sector that typifies label converting, predictions are that digital presses will rival flexo presses in future.  This is attributable to both the change in market demands and the ongoing development of digital technology. A consequence of this will be the move of pure flexo lines into wider web widths and more sophisticated lines that will allow single-pass production of flexible packaging, shrink sleeves, and folding cartons.

Big shows in the recent past, which included Drupa 2024, had staged and unpacked some important technological updates. What’s next that can be expected as new trends shape the printing and packaging industry? 

Gourav Roy: Of course, Labelexpo Europe 2023 showed a big interest in automation, digital printing, and digital finishing. The global print industry has fewer people with print knowledge and hands-on skills. That’s why converters are looking for solutions with partial or full automation. 

Florian Stroe: Well, drupa 2024 was not an exclusive label show, but the trends showcased during the show were very similar to that of Labelexpo Europe 2023 where suppliers focused on automation, robots, digital wide web, machines, digital decoration, etc. Even at the recent Labelexpo Americas 2024, we introduced the fastest-ever hybrid press. 

The ongoing shift towards digital printing and rapid advancements in printing technologies eventually call for significant capital investments. In this, do you see print and packaging companies tweaking their investment plans?

Gourav Roy: Yes, I do. Every print expo in the recent past has shown the growth of digital printing technology. It began in the commercial sector and is now gaining ground in the packaging arena too. If you couple this with the change in consumers’ buying habits, which include ‘online’ that Covid-19 pandemic taught everyone during lockdowns, packaging print converters need to be agile and responsive which digital technology will allow them to be. 

Florian Stroe: Whatever trends and traditions would come up in the industry, I don’t see digital as a direct replacement for flexo; it can complement each other. Choose the best process suitable for your job. A hybrid model might be the best solution. In whatever case or condition, Mark Andy has the widest solutions.

Lack of skilled workforce, rise in costs of raw materials, and logistic and supply chain disruptions are some of the challenges that still persist. Do you think these will linger further?

Gourav Roy: Yes! That’s why we are having more discussions about solutions for RFID labels and such products which require little skilled staff, shipping, logistics, and general supply organisation. Converters only need to put efforts into better operational workflow and automation.

Florian Stroe: Geopolitical, legal, social, and climate change – all these aspects influence a consumer’s behaviour and expectations. We must concerned about these factors while manufacturing labels and packaging products in which configurations & designs of printing technologies and machines are vital.    

Increasing market competition put pressure on the profit margins of many companies which eventually put a brake on investments in new machines. What’s the solution to overcome this situation?

Gourav Roy: It’s always better to create and offer your own solution. You can win business if you offer some extra aspects like technical support and special decoration, or when you suggest to your clients how to create, print, and finish labels, without waiting for him or her to brief you.

Florian Stroe: The first and foremost thing is to build a good relationship with your regional supplier. Our partner FIG is working hard to help every single customer grow in the market, ahead of the competition. For converters using Mark Andy products, we are introducing a full-fledged university course with theoretical and hands-on training programme in 2025.