Missy Donovan

Fujifilm Unveils New ACUITY TR

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10.01.2025 FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Business Innovation Division, today announced the U.S. launch of the ACUITY TR, a revolutionary…

A Clearer Look at Display & POP

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A Clearer Look

By Lisa Guerriero

Vying for customers’ attention, brick-and-mortar retailers regularly compete with each other and online sites. Eye-catching display and point of purchase (POP) signage help retailers stand out.

Utilizing existing space to boost sales and create a lasting impact is achieved with window graphics. Digital Output defines three main categories of window media—adhesive-backed perforated, adhesive-backed unperforated, and cling, which includes static, suction cup, and other technologies.

To select the correct window media for the intended environment, the print service provider (PSP) must evaluate the customer’s needs. Important factors include substrate composition, unique advantages of the specific media, level of transparency and/or light, durability and intended longevity of the media, and municipal or county signage codes.

It is essential that PSPs become familiar with the print and install requirements of all three window media categories. Each substrate has its own nuances to consider, such as whether it is adhered to the outside or inside of the glass, also known as first or second surface, respectively; ink type compatibility; and special print challenges.

Adhesive-Backed Perforated
Adhesive-backed perforated media provides compelling POP graphics for a storefront without blocking the view of customers and staff inside the store. Some end users prefer perforation characteristics to prevent a shop from feeling small or claustrophobic or for security reasons.

“Perforated media creates one-way vision graphics on windows—the printed graphic is visible on the outside, but allows visibility from the inside,” explains Nicole Shokralla, associate product manager, Arlon Graphics, LLC.

Though typically vinyl, some adhesive-backed perforated products consist of polyester—affecting application. In this scenario, “the graphic is mounted to the inside of the glass with permanent or removable two-side tape,” explains Larry Delesio, business development manager, wide format materials, DAF Products, Inc.

The level of transparency varies between products. A 60/40 ratio—60 percent media to 40 percent perforation—is frequently utilized to balance visibility with image quality. Sean McGettigan, technical marketing manager, Hewlett-Packard, suggests that using a material with less open area for retail windows yields better results.

However, opinions differ as to the optimal ratio. While a see-through quality is essential to adhesive-backed perforated media, some customers prefer the inherent benefits of a material with more density and less transparency.

An 80/20 perforation pattern offers “color pop, the best sun screen, and the most privacy,” points out Stan Holt, business development manager North America, Continental Grafix USA, Inc.

Adhesive-backed perforated media is well suited to long- or medium-term display and POP signage. Often, vendors offer different levels or grades of their products to help PSPs match the material cost and the customer’s need for durability.

“If messaging is short-term, then an intermediate media may be most suitable,” says Holly Coleman, market development manager, 3M Commercial Solutions. “If the graphic is in place longer, then a premium product may be more appropriate.”

Many adhesive-backed perforated products meet fire safety standards ranging from flame resistance to self extinguishing, rated by ASTM International, the National Fire Protection Association, or both. However, a PSP may not need to factor in fire resistance, as this type of window material is often mounted outside where fire ratings aren’t applicable.

Adhesive-Backed 
Unperforated
Unperforated adhesive-backed media is commonly used as a décor element in retail spaces. This category offers numerous colors and texture effects to suit the end user’s needs.

For example, “if a long-term logo or graphic needs to look like it is part of the window, an optically clear polyester may be the answer. If a translucent or etched glass effect is desired, a frosted or dusted vinyl material is a solution,” suggests Jason Yard, marketing manager, Mactac Distributor Products.

Adhesive-backed unperforated media can be made up of polyester and vinyl or PVC. The substrate itself can be dark or light, matte or gloss. Some end users prefer clear material as a way of retaining visibility without using a perforation.

Most unperforated options are designed for medium- or long-term use. There are a range of durability levels for adhesive-backed unperforated media. Some jobs require a higher priced product to ensure long-term durability from wear and tear. This can be especially challenging when a retailer requests durability in addition to ease of install. Brian Cheshire, sales manager, Xcel Products, Inc., recommends PSPs “menu sell” to customers, offering several products within a price range.

To promote longevity for long-term prints, an overlaminate or coating is recommended. While this may be a requirement for vinyl- and polyester-based adhesive-backed unperforated window media, John Coyne, sales manager, Lintec Corporation of America, suggests it is especially true of polyester.

“Polyester films offer minimal heat shrinkage and cold cracking, making them ideal for long-term applications. However, vinyl tends to be a better option for long-term outdoor applications due to their weathering characteristics,” he says.

“Durability is a direct result of media and adhesive choice—coupled with an overlaminate—from a product standpoint,” agrees Dennis Brunnett, product manager, advertising, FLEXcon.

Some adhesive-backed unperforated products offer flame resistance or self-extinguishing properties, while others are not designed to address fire resistance concerns at all.

Cling
Cling window media—whether static, suction, or a proprietary technology—is ideal for end users that require non-professional installation and graphics that are removed and reused later.

This substrate is traditionally a vinyl, but today some products are now polyester or polypropylene.

A key advantage of cling is the potential for removability, especially for retailers with seasonal window campaigns or promotions. Suction-based products are easily cleanable, which is well suited for removal and reuse.

Reusability is a factor for graphics that need to be “taken down, stored, and re-used at a later date or the next advertising cycle for a seasonal product,” notes Darrell Adams, VP – North America, Newlife Magnetics LLC.

Intended longevity is often less than three months to one year. Although some products are designed for long-term use, these are typically restricted to two years.

Since some clings are intended only for temporary use, PSPs should ask the customer “the expected term to remain on the window to make sure something is selected with the longevity of the advertising campaign,” says Bruce Walker, client solutions – NE/apps tech, Sihl Inc.

Despite this, durability is still a consideration. PSPs should consult the end user about graphic location to determine the level of human interaction.

As some products offer temperature and humidity resistance, print providers should also consider whether the graphic will be installed indoors or outdoors. “Pertaining to outdoors, it’s important to use a material that can withstand humidity and change of climates,” observes Walter Gierlach Jr., owner, Pro-Graphics Network, LLC.

For products used in temporary applications—three months or less—indoor use is usually required. These window-focused materials are “best placed away from doors, vents, or other drafty areas,” recommends Liz Delp, VP, sales and marketing, ClingZ, Inc.

Due to the short-term quality of window clings, fire ratings are generally not offered for media in this category.

Printing and Installation
The print and install processes of adhesive-backed perforated, adhesive-backed unperforated, and cling window media vary. Whether the media is adhered to first or second surface is an important consideration when it comes to printing.

Secondly, ink type compatibility plays a role. Many polyesters are only UV printable, while vinyl is receptive to a combination of solvent, latex, or UV. PVC products, or those featuring a layer of PVC facestock, are usually receptive to multiple ink sets.

Other nuances effect each specific product, for example the perforation pattern or lack there of. The same is said for the actual install process, as the material used and where it is placed dictates the level of ease in application and whether it will require additional tools to properly adhere the graphic.

Adhesive-Backed Perforated
Adhesive-backed perforated media can be mounted on the first or second glass surface. Graphics are printed in reverse if second surface install is planned.

A PSP’s choice of interior or exterior adhesive-backed perforated media is based on a number of factors. For example, first surface media can be problematic for retail shops where the exterior windows are hard to reach or are subject to strict local signage codes.

According to Patrick Henrietta, director of sales, Contra Vision North America, Inc., the decision “is driven by ease of access or whether the material could possibly be tampered with—for example an inside-based application offers protection from vandalism.”

Substrates in this category are typically compatible with solvent, latex, or UV ink sets.

The perforation pattern sometimes presents printing challenges. “The image saturation level may have to be increased when using perforated products due to the perforations,” says John Mitchell, VP of sales, Ultraflex Systems, Inc.

“With perforated window media, not printing on a solid material automatically limits color gamut. A 70/30 perforated media gains more image area to print, thus increasing impact,” suggests Vincent Bejar, customer business development, LexJet Corporation.

Craig Campbell, market manager – graphic products, ORAFOL Americas, suggests either a double-pass print for heavier ink saturation or layering two identical prints. “If choosing the latter, exact registration of the two prints is a must to avoid ghosting or blurring of the image,” he observes.

Professional installation is recommended for adhesive-backed perforated products, though the scope of the project is a determining factor.

“It is easy for a single installer to manage a smaller application, like a POP display, but if the application was the entire side of a building, you would want more than one installer,” recommends Joey Heiob, technical service representative, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions.

Adhesive-Backed Unperforated
Adhesive-backed unperforated media can be printed double sided. For two-sided prints used in a second surface install, PSPs typically print the first layer in reverse, flood coat with white, and provide a third layer, which creates a two-sided image.

White ink improves image quality by acting as a base layer for a clear substrate, similar to applying primer before painting a wall. “When printing on a clear media it might be best to lay down white ink first, which enables the inks to pop,” suggests Alan Dworman, president, Catalina Graphic Films, Inc.

“If the PSP doesn’t have white ink capability, that provider won’t be able to offer clear media graphics to customers,” recommends Lily Hunter, product manager, textiles and consumables, Roland DGA Corporation.

Depending on the base material, this window media category is compatible with UV, latex, and sometimes solvent inks.

Although professional installation is recommended for many unperforated adhesive-backed products, vendors hone formulations for application and removal by less experienced PSPs.

“These days the application—installation as well as removability—is important. The media has to be applied easily, for experts as well as inexperienced people, and the removability has to be easy as well,” observes Karin Biel, marketing, ASLAN, Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.

Since adhesive-backed unperforated media can be installed first or second surface, it is favorable for those retailers located in cold or inclement climates. Additionally, interior-mount media “is a suitable option to prevent graffiti or when ordinances prohibit exterior-mounted signage,” recommends Judy Bellah, PR manager, Clear Focus Imaging, Inc.

Several factors affect installation, notes Jim Tufts, business unit manager, Perception Wide Format Media. “Some window products require a solution in order to be applied to the glass and others can only be applied to the window when the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit,” he explains.

The type of adhesive backing used on the media in question plays a role. Ritrama recommends substrates with a solvent adhesive “to allow for the wet application method, making installation quick and easy,” says Robert Rundle, viscom market manager, Ritrama.

Tamara Pitman, product manager, Coveris Advanced Coatings, agrees that adhesive is a factor in ease of installation. “Most window graphics can be mounted easily. Air egress, removable adhesives, and thicker products are typically the easiest to install,” she shares.

Air egress is a growing trend in adhesive-backed unperforated window media. This feature allows trapped air to escape through channels and enables the installer to easily push down bubbles for a smooth finish. Newer products with built-in air egress “are designed to be applied without a paid installer,” notes Gary York, wide format specialist, Agfa Graphics.

Cling
Clear and white cling each have separate print processes to consider, in addition to where the final graphic is installed. “Whether the graphic is a first or second surface image determines the amount of white ink being used and the appropriate density of the white layers,” explains Mary Ann Geers, area VP – central region, GPA.

Although clear cling can be installed on the first or second surface, it’s often mounted on the interior glass, which requires mirror-image printing. To strengthen the graphic and prevent a washed out look, it is recommended PSPs follow up with opaque white. White cling does not require any special process.

To create a cling graphic that’s visible from both sides, print a mirror image, then print white, and then print the image again in the right direction.

Most cling products are compatible with solvent, UV, and latex printing, though some are limited to UV.

Easy installation draws many retailers to request cling graphics—whether considered static, suction based, or another technology. “PSPs like static cling media because they can be given to any retail worker—regardless of their installation skill level—and be installed quickly and easily,” observes Blake McCleary, marketing manager, General Formulations.

Wet application further facilitates installation for suction-based products.

“The installer may not even want to smooth down the surface depending on how well the media clings by itself upon contact,” says Matt Meyer, marketing coordinator, Plastiprint Sales Company.

Window Dressing
Windows are prime real estate for display and POP signage. To optimize potential, three main categories of window media are available—adhesive-backed perforated, adhesive-backed unperforated, and cling, which includes static, suction cup, and other technologies.

Choosing the correct solution depends on substrate composition, unique advantages of the specific media, level of transparency and/or light, durability and intended longevity of the media, and municipal or county signage codes.

In addition, print and install capabilities must be considered before agreeing to a job. A printer not equipped with white ink or a graphic that requires an experienced installer are two major issues that must be addressed in the beginning of a customer consult.

Understanding the client’s expectations and a print provider’s limitations allows for the best possible scenario. Multiple window media options are available for display and POP signage used in retail environments and there is a solution for a PSP from every background.

Oct2015, Digital Output

Rough Stuff

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Rough Stuff

By Melissa Donovan

Some of the newest vinyl on the market is designed to adhere easily to rough, textured, and unsealed surfaces. Constructed to melt into the background, they provide an illusion of being painted on the intended surface. Point of purchase (POP) and décor are just some of the options for these applications.

Demand is high from marketers and their customers to create eye-catching, innovative messaging. To address this, print service providers (PSPs) look to vendors to create unique materials, such as vinyl that adheres well to brick, concrete, and stucco. These graphics typically perform well in environments like retail, outside venues such as stadiums and arenas, construction sites, and transit stations—mainly due to the nature of the wall in question. Rough or textured in surfaces are commonly found in these areas.

Material is specifically crafted with the surface in mind. Many of the substrates that fall into this specific niche feature high levels of stretchability to accommodate for curves, crevices, and nicks in the surface while still performing at high levels of adhesion.

Beyond the Norm
Demand for vinyl used on textured and rough surfaces derives from the need to stand out from the competition. A PSP adds this service to its existing portfolio to differentiate themselves from the crowd or a brand manager looks to segment itself from a leading competitor.

“Using vinyl for textured/rough surfaces opens up new avenues for attention-grabbing POP, advertising, artistic, and informative opportunities. Now you can transform an otherwise boring concrete, construction/motorsport speedway barrier, brick, or other unsealed textured surface into a revenue producing billboard,” explains Lisa Humrich, marketing manager, ORAFOL Americas.

With the onslaught of messaging crammed in front of us at all hours of the day—whether static or dynamic—there is an increasing need for graphics to utilize previously ignored space. “The demand is coming from customers that see this real estate as an exciting and new opportunity to create an environment or promote a message. Historically, this was not available,” admits Tim Boxeth, business and marketing manager, 3M Commercial Solutions.

Dennis Burnett, product manager – advertising, and Jodi Sawyer, market development specialist, FLEXcon, believe that because consumers are becoming more mobile, advertisers and end users need to utilize existing assets to take advantage of reaching a mass audience. “Promotional graphics are adhered to challenging application surfaces that they would not traditionally be adhered to; therefore, stretching the limitations of the film and adhesive system,” they continue.

The demand for this type of product often comes from a desired aesthetic. “We find customers seeking a wrap for exterior applications or seeking applications that offer a ‘paint-like’ finish. Wrapping a textured surface with a cast film allows the graphic to closely emulate a textured look and feel while the film itself is un-textured,” advises Nicole Shokralla, associate product manager, Arlon Graphics, LLC.

A Day in the Life
Vinyl fabricated for use with brick, concrete, and stucco are found in retail to transit stations. These environments include a type of wall classified as rough or textured in surface that is generally difficult to achieve great adhesion.

“Rough wall graphics are being used in locker rooms and gymnasiums for mascots and motivational messages. They’re also used for cool painted-on effects and logos in bars and restaurants. Stadiums and arenas are taking advantage of previously un-utilized square footage to promote many things too,” explains Jason Yard, marketing manager, Mactac Distributor Products.

Response is overwhelming. “People are not used to seeing graphics on the side of a textured wall or building, so they are amazed at the way the graphics conform to many different textures and surfaces. Stadiums, retail space, and music venues are just some of the common locations that have the surface real estate to do something inspiring and eye catching where consumers wouldn’t expect to see imagery,” says Boxeth.

Burnett and Sawyer list columns, walls and ceilings in train stations, eye beams on construction sites, construction barricades, building wraps between windows, waste containers, and solar kiosks as potential candidates for installation.

“Turning any size blank exterior or interior wall into a work of art or larger advertisement seems to have the most visual impact,” suggests Robert Rundle, viscom market manager, Ritrama Inc.

Stretch and Release
Products designed for rough and textured surfaces are not your traditional vinyl. Most are constructed with increased stretch and high adhesion to ensure a permanent bond on traditionally hard-to-stick surfaces.

Vendors take time to make sure these products perform well under all conditions. FLEXcon’s high-performance film and adhesive systems are engineered and tested specifically to the application surface to which they will be applied to.

A cast vinyl is ideal for these types of surfaces because it conforms well and takes the shape of the surface due to the nature of its construction, according to Shokralla. Although, she does refrain from making a blanket statement that all cast vinyl is a fit.

Rundle agrees, citing soft, conformable 2-mil cast vinyl and polyurethane as lending themselves well to textured surfaces, generally offering an elongation up to 150 percent with 2-mil polyurethane.

The film in question must be stretchable. At ORAFOL, to activate the unique stretching capabilities of its newest substrate, a combination of heat and pressure with a foam roller and/or rivet brush is required to successfully adhere the media into cracks and crevices.

Alan Miller, technical service manager, 3M, refers to this process as thermoforming. “The use of heat and a roller allows the film to soften and then conform to the textured substrate. Once the product has been conformed and stretched, it virtually has no memory left and will want to adhere to the surface and grout lines.”

3M’s products in this segment can stretch up to 150 percent and maintain lift resistance. For example, a ten-inch piece of film elongates up to 15 inches.

Adhesive is an essential component. “Only special adhesives will ensure good adhesion of these rough surfaces in outdoor conditions. They must be water proof, stable against changing temperatures, and still removable once the vinyl is taken away,” advises Hubertus von Henninges, marketing and sales director, ASLAN, Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.

“One thing to note about vinyl is that since surfaces vary based on texture and paint, it is critical to always first test the compatibility of the film and the surface to ensure bond. Additives such as mildew resistance in paint can be detrimental to vinyl remaining on certain walls,” cautions Shokralla.

Rough and Tough Vinyl
Here, we’ve rounded up some of the leading vendors who offer vinyl designed for rough and textured surfaces. Each share their products, roll width availability, ink compatibility, intended life, and surface compatibility.

3M Envision Print Wrap Film LX480Cv3 and SV480Cv3 are available at 54 inches in width. Both are ideal for brick, cinderblock, stucco, and any textured surface that is not porous that has relief of 1/8″ or less. Life expectancy when applied to a textured surface is around three to six months, as a conservative guideline. However, in a moderate climate users can expect two to three years or more. 3M Envision Print Wrap Film LX480Cv3 is compatible with latex and UV; whereas 3M Envision Print Wrap Film SV480Cv3 is suited for solvent or UV ink.

Arlon offers a number of products that perform well on rough and textured surfaces. Its DPF 8000 is an industrial-grade film with a high-tack adhesive. Outdoor durability for vertical masonry surfaces is rated up to six months to one year. It is used for wall murals, ABS plastics, rough surfaces, brick, concrete, stucco walls, motorcycles, and motorbikes. DPF 6700 is a cast film with a clear permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive that is highly conformable. It is rated for outdoor durability for vertical masonry surfaces up to six months to one year. It’s used on unpainted brick, stucco, and concrete walls. Both products are available in 30-, 48-, 54-, and 60-inch by 50 yards and compatible with eco-solvent, solvent, latex, and UV ink.

ASLAN offers its WrapTheHouse ASLAN DFP 45 product, available in rolls of 1.37 meters. It is compatible with solvent, eco-solvent, latex, and UV-curable ink sets. Its lifespan is slated for three years on rough wall surfaces.

FLEXcon promotes its FLEXmark BILBRD BWV RTS product for use on rough-textured concrete, metal, powder-coated paint, lumber/wood, plastic, paint, polycarbonate, and foamboard. The product is available in roll widths of 54 and 60 inches and is compatible with UV, solvent, and latex inkjet printers. It carries a suggested lifespan of two years outdoor durability.

Mactac’s IMAGin RoughRAP WW100 is available in roll widths of 54 inches and used on concrete, brick, and cinderblock vertical walls. It features a strong adhesive, but its 2-mil conformable face allows it to melt into the textured surface. Slated for 18 months outdoors and four to five years indoors, the product is compatible with solvent, latex, and UV ink.

ORAFOL’s ORAJET 3954 Brick Stone Film is available in roll widths of 54 inches. It is compatible with latex, solvent, eco-solvent, and UV-curable ink. Its lifespan is rated at one year unprinted. The 2-mil film is ideal for unsealed textured surfaces including brick, concrete block, and poured concrete.

Ritrama offers its Ultimate Rough Wall, ideal for smooth, compound curves and rough/textured surfaces. It is slated for use up to seven years outdoors unprinted. Available in roll widths of 54 and 60 inches, the media is compatible with solvent, eco-solvent, latex, and UV inkjet printers.

Sticking to Sporting
Superior Signs and Graphics, of Buena Park, CA, began in November 2012. The company specializes in vehicle wraps, window and wall wraps, and trade show displays. With three employees and husband and wife co-owners, the business services mostly Orange and Los Angeles counties, but has done work for organizations across the country as well. The PSP works in 2,300 square feet of space and relies on printers from companies like Hewlett-Packard (HP).

Recently, Superior Signs and Graphics was asked to create a wall wrap for California State University (CSU). In August 2014, the company designed a large graphic that adhered to the back of a locker room that looked out onto the university’s soccer field. Arlon’s DPF 6700 was the media of choice.

“We looked for a very conformable cast media that would adhere to unpainted rough surfaces. That soccer wall was like a slag stone—about as rough as you will find—and the DPF 6700 stuck like glue and conformed to the deep crevasses,” explains Scott Hoffman, co-owner, Superior Signs and Graphics.

CSU was so impressed with the final result, it asked Hoffman to create another wall wrap for the exterior wall of a gym where fans buy tickets and concessions for sporting events. The school hoped to transform the wall from something dull and uninformative to a spirited, themed graphic that served the dual purpose of highlighting the ticket area and promoting more concession sales.

Similar to the soccer wall, the surface of the gym’s exterior was rough. Hoffman says it was a brick and mortar wall, unpainted, with deep channels for mortar joints. Turning to Arlon’s DPF 6700 again would be the right decision.

It printed all of the graphics on its HP Latex printer on Arlon DPF 6700. The total dimensions were 14×40 feet. The print was laminated with Arlon Series 3220 overlaminate. It took one day to complete printing and lamination.

Install occurred over two days with two installers. Hoffman says heat torches and rough surface application tools were used. While the team was familiar with the CSU grounds from the previous job, it did encounter a challenge. “Centering the roof lines correctly over the concessions and ticket windows,” admits Hoffman.

In all, the entire project continues to impress school personnel and sporting event attendees. The final wall wrap also serves as a great illustration of the work Superior Signs and Graphics is capable of. Because of this second job, CSU’s athletic department referred the PSP to two other departments on campus.

Speedily Sticking to Surfaces
The Decal Source (TDS), based in McLeansville, NC, was established in 1998 by founder Tony Johnson. 80 percent of the company’s work derives from motorsports, much of which has to do with its central location in NC, placing it in the major hub for NASCAR and other car racing events. Its geographical location dictates much of its regular work.

45 employees round out over 20,000 square feet of space, which consists of TDS West and TDS East, two buildings located on “campus” that hold commercial business/accounting and print production/sales, respectively. The company offers project management, design, printing, and installation. It employs eight full-time installers on staff and they travel the country to install various jobs printed by TDS.

TDS works with 3M media for rough and textured surfaces. To date, a recent project for Iowa Speedway was the largest request that relied on 3M Envision Print Wrap Film LX480Cv3. Slated for use on brick, concrete, and industrial stucco, around 2,000 square feet of media was printed on to wrap the walls of restrooms, ticket booths, and more.

The goal, according to Chris Cheney, sales manager, TDS, was to showcase the speedway’s partnership with 3M and brighten up the speedway, working with the 3M media to cover the “big, blank canvases” of large concrete walls. The artwork was printed on HP Latex printers—which it owns eight of—and then laminated with 3M Envision Luster Wrap Overlaminate 8549L.

Cheney is quick to note the importance of matching the 3M media to the recommended 3M laminate. “You need to make sure it applies well to the brick surface or it won’t work. We find better durability with recommended laminates.”

From the original request to install, turnaround time spanned ten days. The challenge was in juggling over 100 different graphics files and outputting them in such a short period of time. Logistics were also a factor. TDS installed the graphics over four days on site in IA and the team had to ensure that jobs were delivered in the right order for efficient install.

Iowa Speedway was so impressed, it continues to work with TDS. Cheney believes it utilizes the company’s services because of its high quality and project management. “What wowed them the most was our quality standards and project management. They gave us all of these different files and we produced and organized everything properly to get there on time for installation.”

Since the initial request, TDS has worked on two smaller jobs for the speedway. While the first order provided décor around the event space and will stay up long term, the next few projects were designed for specific races.

Offering rough and textured media like 3M Envision Print Wrap Film LX480Cv3 allowed TDS to get its foot in the door at Iowa Speedway and create unique applications that wowed the client. The result is repeat business.

Geared Up for the Hard Stuff
Rough and textured surfaces are everywhere, so it isn’t a surprise that brand messaging finds its way on these once undiscovered territories. To ensure these graphics maintain a high-quality finish, the newest media options must provide the correct amount of stretchability and proper adhesion. When these features are met, a graphic performs well into its intended lifespan and resembles the seamless look of paint on a wall.

Click here to view the Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Media Chart – an all-inclusive information resource!

Oct2015, Digital Output

Exploring Packaging

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Exploring Packaging

By Cassandra Balentine

Print service providers (PSPs) looking to expand service offerings should consider short-run packaging and packaging prototypes. Flatbed and hybrid printers are well suited to handle corrugated packaging applications, expanding the revenue potential for shops with existing equipment and presenting an option to those looking to invest in new technology.

Flatbed printers provide the ability to print on a range of substrates, advanced media handling, and priming capabilities to address the specific needs of prototyping and short-run packaging applications.

“The technology is so accessible and easy to use that the print and finishing process is demystified,” says Ken VanHorn, director, marketing and business development, Mimaki USA, Inc. “Using tools in which they’re already familiar, designers can implement a complete prototype solution that gives them the flexibility to go from design to final mock up within hours, and at a fraction of the cost.”

To accommodate select packaging applications, large format flatbed and hybrid printers are ideal tools. “The current use is primarily in developing prototypes,” suggests Terry Amerine, director of product marketing, Durst Image Technology US LLC. “Allowing for the ability in flexibility to support market studies and testing.”

From prototypes to short production runs, wide format digital flatbed and hybrid devices provide a suitable technology for corrugated and folding carton packaging applications.

Packaging Potential
The opportunity for digital packaging—including wide format—is expansive, and should not be overlooked. Because digital technologies enable faster turnaround times and reduced waste—critical for short-run work—concepts are taken from design to completion in minutes.

PSPs accustomed to providing these quick turnarounds on traditional applications can extend the service to prototypes and short-run packaging applications. Additionally, design agencies and brand owners may consider investing in the technology themselves for in-house production.

Micha Kemelman, senior product marketing manager, Scitex, Hewlett-Packard, states that digital print is growing steadily and there is a significant potential for digital large format flatbed presses in corrugated packaging. “Packaging converters who produce high-impact packaging and displays are currently experiencing sharp reductions in average run lengths. Driven by brand and retail demands, run lengths have gone from 5,000 to 10,000 units per run five years ago to 2,000 to 3,000 units per run today,” he offers. “While analog printing technology is challenged with printing short runs, digital printing can easily and efficiently address this demand.”

Randy Paar, marketing manager, display graphics, Canon Solutions America, says the potential for wide format within the overall packaging segment is substantial, especially when considering that packaging has only recently moved towards digital production. “As flatbed image quality and productivity has seen continual improvement, flatbed printers now play an important role in this transition to digital.”

Jay Roberts, product manager, UV printers, Roland DGA Corporation, says that interestingly enough, in the past the vast majority of print shops producing prototypes were packaging houses. “Today, we see more print facilities catering directly to graphic design firms, as well as design firms that handle printing themselves.”

Roberts says it is the ability of UV flatbed printers that enable printing directly onto larger and more unique substrates in addition to handling sign production and more traditional packaging jobs that allow a number of package prototypes to be produced at a variety of companies and print shops.

In addition to printers leveraging digital print technology to provide customers with versioning and test runs, Kemelman says another interesting trend is that converters who traditionally printed only to paperboard are leveraging digital platforms with UV-curable inks to explore new, high-margin opportunities with plastic media.

David Conrad, director of marketing, Mutoh America, Inc., notes the advantages of wide format digital include space-saving technology and the ability to create multiple applications in addition to prototypes and comps at a reasonable price point.

“The advantages of flatbed wide format digital printers for the packaging segment are many,” says Mark Swanzy, COO, Xanté Corporation. “Without the need to create a plate, digital printing has brought about fast turnaround times and printing on demand. Shops can affordably add four-color capabilities and print customized, variable material on demand. Box printers can also run customized or rush jobs on digital printers while simultaneously running other existing presses, increasing production capabilities and profits with higher margins,” he adds.

Considerations for Packaging
When considering adding prototypes versus short-run packaging, the many similarities between the two make it an option for PSPs to tackle both. However, there are factors to consider that better position a shop or press for one over the other.

“There isn’t much difference in the desirable feature sets for the two application types,” suggests VanHorn. “When looking at flatbeds, the print technology should be a primary factor.”

Although he does not see a significant difference between the equipment feature sets for prototypes versus short-run packaging applications, Amerine says a shop’s goal makes a difference in which application is right for them. “A shop focused on prototyping is more design oriented and works with a larger variety of materials and packaging options,” he explains. “Production and finishing capacity is crucial for a shop doing short-run work that is typically time sensitive,” he adds.

Paar also points to volume as a determining factor between prototypes and short-run packaging. “If you are only producing prototypes, chances are you don’t need a high-speed flatbed,” he says. “The customer is still going to recognize the benefit in getting his prototype in a couple of hours for less cost and likely better quality compared to what they’ve been doing previously. Short-run printing obviously has different needs related to higher volumes.”

Conrad advises looking at the job split and anticipating production capability before making a decision. “If the focus is mostly producing prototypes, then a hybrid device that provides production capacity for other applications as well as prototype production is a good investment.” For example, having the cutters, trimmers, software, and finishing equipment needed for these jobs qualifies a shop to produce actual packaging pieces versus creating a prototype for job approval.

Kemelman shares that the goal with prototyping is to capture business by establishing the capabilities of the manufacturer through a one-off sample or limited number of samples. “To offer prototyping, print providers must have the capabilities to manufacture very small amounts and quickly tweak output performance.”

Kemelman adds that prototypes are required to look like the product it represents, so they need to be produced on the same media with the same colors and appearance as the final product.

“If prototype packaging is all that you are after, print quality is the primary feature to look for,” says Guy Cipresso, VP sales and business development, Novus Imaging Inc. He says that variable drop sizes down to four picoliters are required for customer package prototypes, and features such as white ink, varnish, and spot colors are desired. “These printers tend to be a lower initial investment and typically have slower print speeds in quality mode,” he continues.

For short runs, Cipresso says faster print speed is required, while maintaining the image quality of the prototype. “This will require a higher priced printer investment,” he adds.

With these considerations in mind, Cipresso believes that a shop with a full creative team and experience with in-store retail and point of purchase packaging requirements is better suited for packaging compared to a shop whose focus is outdoor signs, banners, and yard signs. “The shop should have print experience with packaging materials like folding boxboard, corrugated, blister board, and white-lined chipboard,” he says.

For both short-run and prototype packaging, printers should consider speed and media handling capabilities.

VanHorn points out that UV technology can print on a range of paper, synthetics, and natural materials. Additional considerations should include the type of UV. Because it cures as a lower temperature, UV LED further expands the range of substrate options.

Media conveyance is also important for packaging applications. “If the mix of media includes pre-cut or non-square media, or includes tough-to-feed materials such as mylar or thin films, then a flatbed table with a vacuum system is necessary, as a hybrid will be more susceptible to skew or feed distortion,” shares VanHorn.

“The biggest challenge is properly handling the corrugated material,” agrees Larry D’Amico, VP, digital imaging, North America, Agfa Graphics. “It has a tendency to bow and curl. Unless the system can properly handle it, it might be difficult to image.”

He adds that a true flatbed typically works better since the material does not need to be pulled on a belt and remains stationary. “In addition, a strong vacuum system is required to deal with the material issues,” he shares.

Primer application is another factor. This step may be necessary when decorating pre-manufactured pieces, says VanHorn. “Some substrates require a boost for best ink adhesion and primers are available. A flatbed printer that includes the ability to print the primer layer—either as a flood or spot, rather than the PSP having to manually apply it—will provide a productivity boost to the workflow,” he adds.

Roberts admits that no single UV inkjet printer can fulfill all of the needs of every individual. “I feel it’s imperative to select a printer based on its unique capabilities. When it comes to package prototyping, being able to print with gloss and white, and then cut and contour, is crucial,” he says. “Quickly and cost-effectively creating mock ups or prototypes that look just like the printed product is where smaller UV printers flourish. The ability of these UV printer/cutters to print prototypes incorporating special effects and then cut to produce precise sample pieces reduces not only pre-production time, but also the time required for customer approval of the finished goods.”

Adding Packaging
Those with existing print capabilities must consider the initial investment before committing to packaging services.

One consideration is the staff. “Preparing the sales team for the new offering is key so that they understand all of the new capabilities and applications,” recommends Heather Roden, associate product marketing manager, Graphic Systems Division, Fujifilm North America Corporation.

Eric Xu, overseas marketing manager, Teckwin Technology Development Co., Ltd., also warns that operator skill is essential when dealing with printheads on packaging applications. “If any printhead is operated the wrong way, it could cause damage to the nozzle and affect print quality,” he says. Therefore, during production, factors like printhead maintenance and color management are important.

Communication is integral to success. “Too many times, a project is delayed because of poor communication throughout the job’s lifecycle. Sometimes, not asking simple questions about the requirements of a job, or the end use of a package prototype can derail a project right from the start. “In prototyping, having the ability to print onto specialized substrates using gloss or white can greatly affect the end result. Effective communication regarding the product and where it’s being sold can ensure a clear understanding of the target market and the desired graphic message—elements crucial to the success of any packaging prototype,” believes Roberts.

“Try to gain more knowledge about packaging,” advises Paar. “Learn the traditional packaging workflow to understand the value proposition, and definitely learn the lingo. First off, strike the word ‘cardboard’ from your vocabulary—it’s either corrugate or paperboard,” he says.

Investments in finishing and software tools are also important. D’Amico says the real issue for anyone wanting to get into package printing is to understand the market. “The segment has a lot of nuances beyond simply output. The finishing needs to be seriously considered since creasing, scoring, and other requirements are particular to this industry,” he stresses.

“An investment would have to be made in finishing systems that could cut/score the printed board to create a final box. In addition, some knowledge and software would need to be obtained that allows you to manipulate the image data. Color management and placing images relative to die lines are important application requirements for packaging,” adds D’Amico.

“When it comes to both short-run production and prototyping, there is one element not to be forgotten—finishing,” warns Roberts. “If you have a flatbed or hybrid, the importance of cutting and finishing each piece cannot be underestimated.”

Cipresso says those with existing capabilities benefit from a full creative team and experience with a range of materials and finishing processes. Access to a supplier for die cutting and specialized finishing is important if it’s not available in house. “Prototyping requires more one-on-one interaction. It may take several iterations to arrive at the design that meets the customer’s expectations,” he shares.

Amerine suggests that those entering packaging must have all aspects covered from design to production to finishing. “Packaging is a very different segment. It demands lots of flexibility and the shop must have the workflow to handle it. A fully integrated workflow system is essential. Having personnel with solid design and production experience in packaging is helpful—if not a requirement—while adapting to changes, revisions, and edits throughout the process,” he explains.

Packaging Possibilities
Packaging applications are an option for PSPs looking to add new services and revenue streams.

Oct2015, Digital Output

Label Happy

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Label Happy

By Melissa Donovan

Digitally printed labels continue to gain market share in the traditional flexography market. This is achieved by both wide and narrow format printers.

For those print providers relying on a wide format device—over 24 inches in width—they can create labels, stickers, or decals in addition to existing applications like posters, banners, or vehicle wraps. These users are looking at smaller production runs, sometimes as low as one.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, print providers can choose to implement a narrow format device if they are looking to ramp up production of labels. Instead of relying on an existing wide format machine, a narrow format device can be dedicated to high-speed label production.

Going Wide
LDI Jacksonville/Orlando is a franchise with a multi-faceted background. Ray Carter, owner, LDI Jacksonville/Orlando, started the business ten years ago. Based in Atlanta, GA, with a background in dry wall, he moved to FL and bought a print business. At the time, he lived in the same building as the shop and employed around three part-time staff members. Carter leveraged his contacts in the architecture and construction industry to bring in business.

Ben Williams, manager, LDI Jacksonville/Orlando, worked in his family business for 15 years before parting ways at the end of 2012. He met Carter and began working at LDI Jacksonville/Orlando in January 2013. At the time, they continued to build, using both Williams and Carters’ contacts to bring in customers and spread the word about business.

All of the hard work paid off. Today, the company employs four full-time staff members in both its Jacksonville and Orlando locations, serving a geographical radius of about 50 to 60 miles. Both locations clock in at around 2,000 square feet of space each.

LDI Jacksonville/Orlando offers an array of services to architects, engineers, home builders, and churches. It does everything from vinyl lettering to banners. With the addition of its Mutoh America, Inc. ValueJet 1617H, even more services are added to the fold from direct printing on untraditional materials like ceiling panels to labels.

The company decided to bring in a direct flatbed printer in 2014. According to Williams, they couldn’t deal with printing on a roll and then mounting it to a rigid board anymore—plus being in FL, humidity and peeling were an issue. In response, he made a few calls and ended up meeting a Mutoh dealer in Orlando, who put him in touch with another Mutoh user. After watching the printer in action, Williams was sold.

With the expanded capabilities of the Mutoh ValueJet 1617H, Williams explained to his customers all of the new and different types of applications LDI Jacksonville/Orlando was able to accomplish—like labels. Williams’ has a good friend who owns a local lunch/breakfast place who requested stickers for its windows. After the window decals were printed, he was impressed with the quality and inquired about having some more made up to be used on bags and cups.

Williams recognized the appeal of personalized labels and in particular how the Mutoh ValueJet 1617H—with no extra cost to him—could efficiently create these labels at a high quality. The application is an add on to existing customers’ job orders and provides increased revenue for the shop.

“It got me thinking, why not make labels for water bottles and other types of things for all of our customers, for example company outings,” explains Williams. He sent a graphic designer business cards from various clients and asked him to design a water bottle label for each. Once the designs were received, graphics were printed on the Mutoh ValueJet 1617H and adhered to a water bottle. The finished product was presented to customers as an additional way to showcase their brand. Response was positive.

Since that first job, LDI Jacksonville/Orlando has printed runs of 250 to 1,000 water bottle labels. Williams says 250 labels is an average quantity, and it usually takes about 30 minutes to print and cut them to a finished piece. A less expensive cast vinyl material with a 3-mil thickness is usually used.

An additional bonus is that the graphic doesn’t require any lamination since the ink, Mutoh’s bio-based, resists abrasion and discoloration during the limited amount of time the graphic is in place.

Three different price packages are offered for water bottle labels. At one price, LDI Jacksonville/Orlando prints the label. The second price includes printing and adhering the label on a customer-supplied water bottle. For the highest cost, the print shop prints the label, adheres it to the water bottle it purchases, and delivers it to the destination. Williams says customers overwhelmingly choose the third option.

Lawyers, landscapers, copier salespeople, and construction companies to organizations holding golf events are all potential label customers. “Any company that deals with customers is a fit for water bottle labels. It is a great way to get the word out,” explains Williams.

The service is promoted in a number of ways. A monthly statement is sent to clients and a special is always added to the promotional piece to entice customers to take advantage of an offer they may not have done otherwise—water bottle labels were the July special. Other methods include scattering water bottles with the labels in the company’s showroom and offices and the tried-and-true Guerilla marketing approach.

While Williams hasn’t hit the street and marketed the service as much as he would have liked to this Summer, he continues to see growth in the label side of the business. Today, about five percent of LDI Jacksonville/Orlando’s total revenue comes from labels, but he believes this will increase.

The Mutoh ValueJet 1617H is essential to the company’s success. “It prints as long and as hard as the big boys. It may not be as fast, but I’ll take slow and correct any day. The printer is really a money making machine for us,” comments Williams.

Narrowing In
While wide format digital works for some businesses when it comes to label printing, other times a dedicated, narrow format digital device is the best fit. Look at SnugZ USA, based in West Jordan, UT. The company started out in a garage back in 1989. Over the years it expanded its presence into the promotional products industry and went from lanyards to personal care items.

Six years ago its Z Collection launched, which includes lip balm, lotion, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and essential oils. The company not only manufactures the products, it also creates all of the labels and packaging that they entail. A year into the endeavor the firm brought digital printers in house for label printing.

“We chose digital because of the short runs we constantly encounter. We have such a variety of clients, quantities can run from 100 to 5,000 depending on the day. The volumes can get low and digital gives us the ability to do a lot of different types of labels in a quick amount of time,” explains Darren Massey, director of manufacturing, SnugZ.

Today about 70 to 80 employees work in the personal care division with Massey. Its clients are nationwide, with some overlap into other countries, but mostly in the North American region. In addition to Massey’s division, the company offers doming and creates stickers with apoxy and dye-sublimation printing. The entire production facility for all three divisions rounds out at about 4,900 square feet of space.

About a year ago, SnugZ considered upgrading its current digital label printers to the latest technology. After seeing an Epson SurePress digital label printer in action at an industry trade show, Massey requested samples to see what the printer could accomplish.

One of the company’s goals was to find a printer that could handle the very fine text they constantly place on their labels. “Most of our products have really small text with an ingredient deck. Our previous equipment had difficulty getting this type small but legible. So when we saw the Epson SurePress samples, that really stood out,” admits Massey.

SnugZ was also looking for quality in color. As a vendor printing other company’s logos, it needs to ensure the output is as good as it possibly can be. The Epson SurePress achieves vibrant color thanks Epson SurePress AQ ink—a water-based, resin-coated pigment ink system.

Lastly, the personal care division wanted to make sure its newest press included white ink. “We weren’t doing it before, but knew clients were pushing for it, so we wanted the capability,” explains Massey.

In November 2014 SnugZ integrated two Epson SurePress L-4033AW printers into its production facility. Today both run two-and-a-half shifts a day, which equals out to 20 hours a day. Two graphic artists are trained to design the labels and three press operators are trained on the devices. Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions media is run on the printers regularly.

The company prints with white ink. At the advent of the printer purchase, SnugZ introduced essential oils to its Zen line—an extension of its personal care division. The white ink allows them to work with clear material for the line’s labels. “We use the clear media and flood coat it in white behind the imagery,” adds Massey.

Clients are impressed with Epson SurePress L-4033AW printers’ output. The quality is better than previous output and the imagery is clearer.

Label Happy
Whether you are one-stop, traditional PSP already offering banners and posters and want to entice buyers with additional add-ons; or a promotional marketing company looking to benefit from the short runs and cost-effective personalization digital print can provide, labels are a viable option. Both wide and narrow format digital printers offer capabilities for label making.

Click here to view the Applications on the Rise Target Chart – an all-inclusive information resource!

Oct2015, Digital Output

Standing Out

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Standing Out

By Lisa Guerriero

Flag graphics are hard to ignore, which is exactly why they’re suited to a variety of advertising and promotional applications.

Many offer a combination of stands and flags. Business is booming for digitally printed flag systems used for marketing, branding, and wayfinding. The ability to print a variety of eye-catching shapes and sizes makes advertising flags valuable for retailers and marketers.

“While traditionally manufactured flags will never go out of use as state or country flags, digitally printed flags are fast becoming a favored alternative for promotional or marketing messages,” says Natalie Whited, VP of marketing, Orbus Exhibit & Display Group.

Designs offer different benefits for maximizing the exposure an advertising campaign receives. Two-way readability is a popular option, and some systems are engineered to attract attention from the waving or rotating of the flag.

Highly durable, advertising flags offer a “set and forget” messaging method required by many advertisers. This is supported by easy setup and a high degree of portability, enabling use at multiple locations.

These qualities also make advertising flags well suited to wayfinding and instructional signage. They are especially effective when used for temporary or traveling events.

Print service providers (PSPs) new to textile printing, as well as fabric veterans, can maximize their investment by adding advertising flags to their list of services.

Though advertising flags are in a variety of shapes, teardrop and feather styles are trending. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but teardrop refers to mounting systems where the fabric is held taut. The mounting system for feather flags creates a rippling or waving effect.

Stand and Deliver
Businesses utilize flag systems for advertising, including retailers, banks, automotive dealerships, and grocery stores. They are also popular for apartment complexes, restaurants, schools, and special events like festivals and concerts.

“Flags stand out in a crowd—either as directional signage or an indoor/outdoor display to launch a product; promote an event or grand opening; or simply generate foot traffic to your location,” notes Gary Aires, CEO, Above All Advertising, Inc.

Easy installation and portability makes advertising flags well suited for temporary, traveling, or recurring promotions. PSPs provide clients with a ready-to-use product that doesn’t require a professional to change graphics.

Many advertising flags are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Often, end users post them inside and outside of a venue—including shops, trade shows, and events—to maximize the effect.

Other systems target specific environments. Flags for interiors typically employ a straight pole or banner arm. Outdoor systems are often designed to wave or rotate, while retaining graphic visibility when wind subsides.

Although they are often used as stand-alone graphics, flags may also serve as part of a larger marketing campaign. A classic use is to complement in-store messaging with a flag graphic stationed outside.

“Think of feather flags like freshly baked, warm bread. Great by itself, but also delicious with any meal,” suggest Tim Bookout, VP sales, and Gustavo Correa, VP sales and marketing, North America Display Corporation.

Some vendors also offer flag-style display systems for street poles. Digital printing is increasingly popular for this application, as advertisers look for a range of shapes, sizes, and printing effects. Flag systems for street poles offer easy, cost-effective change outs without requiring additional hardware or use of a bucket truck. As a result, they are popular for short-term advertising near a venue.

“It’s particularly effective for festival and special event venues,” notes Roger Lepley, president, Consort Display Group.

Printing and Finishing
Many advertising flag vendors offer printing services with their products, allowing PSPs to outsource the work. Flags and display systems are also available for a PSP to print in house.

Polyester and polyester blends are the primary fabric choice for advertising flags. It is durable, environmentally friendly, and compatible with many printers and inks. Additionally, polyester provides a key feature for advertising—versatility.

“Polyester materials come in a variety of characteristics—they can be sheer or more opaque, knitted or woven, matte or glossy, wrinkle resistant, or flame retardant, giving customers the choice to have their product look how they want it,” explains Susanne Ruhland, VP, Tex Visions.

The printing method varies depending on the flag brand and product. Many vendors suggest dye-sublimation (dye-sub) because it balances color quality with durability and works well with polyester.

If a PSP purchases the display stand and fabric and plans to handle the printing in house, vendors recommend finishing by sewing rather than welding. This is the method typically used by flag vendors that also print the graphics.

In addition to flag hemming, some systems require finishing. The main graphic is attached to a sewn pole pocket, which allows the flag to be attached to the hardware.

“Both single- and double-sided flags need to be sewn to create the pole pocket during the finishing process,” says Whited.

Flag Products
Here we detail available flag systems. While some advertising flags are sold as stand-alone mounting systems, many vendors provide the fabric as well.

Above All Advertising offers flag systems for dye-sub printing, each with a carbon composite pole system and polyester blend fabrics. It usually handles the printing for these systems. Its offerings include the Flex Banner Evo Banner, priced at $75 net per piece. It stands 15 feet tall with a 138×25.5-inch banner. Its shape is similar to a teardrop but with a straighter line on the pole side and less curve at the top. Mounting options include ball bearing platforms or ground stakes.

Custom Contour Cut Flags feature a non-symmetrical shape designed to spotlight a product or brand.

Buyers can custom order a shape—the loose side of the flag is cut to resemble a beverage can or a logo. “It offers continuous visibility of your company. The top stays firm while the bottom blows in the wind,” says Aires. The system is available in an 8.5-foot height with a 72×55-inch banner, or 13-foot height with a 120×55-inch banner. It is priced at $169.99 net per piece for the smaller version or $189.99 net per piece for the 13-foot model.

The Bullet Flag from Above All Advertising, named for its shape, offers a large printing surface. The system stands 12 or 15 feet high, with corresponding banner space of either 128×39.5 or 168×61 inches. Designed to generate product awareness and visibility, it rotates 360 degrees in the wind and returns to its original position. Installation options include a tailgate stand, wall mount, platform, or stake. Pricing is $209.99 for the 12-foot model and $299.99 for the 15-foot version.

Consort features multiple flag systems in a variety of shapes and sizes. Its Dori Pole Pennant System tethers the flag on one side for a loose, rippling effect. The pole, made of pultruded Fiberglass, features a proprietary swiveling yoke at the top that spins in the wind to deter tangling. The flags are available in solid colors or a two-color version. SolarMax nylon enables custom imprints using thermal heat set materials in up to three colors while the polyester allows the entire pennant to be any design. The company recommends sewing for this system. The fiberglass poles range from 13.5 to 21 feet high when telescoped. The poles are available for $75 to $99 and stock pennants are priced at $35 to $79 depending on length. Consort also offers custom printing services.

The company’s FlagTrax is a modernized version of the traditional light pole mounted advertising flag. “This system targets entities and organizations that currently use the standard vertical format street banners,” explains Lepley. Unlike the street pole flags sometimes used by retailers, museums, and municipalities, FlagTrax doesn’t require a bucket truck after installation—change outs can be completed from the ground. The company sews FlagTrax Slider Tape onto the pole side and top of the flag, allowing the print to “slide” up the track and into position. Multiple printing methods can be used, but Consort recommends single-weight, bleed-through dye-sub for optimal performance. The system holds flags between 48×22 and 144×36 inches. The hardware costs between $195 and $325 while the flags are between $90 and $250.

Creative Banner Displays offers teardrop sail sign banners in 8, 11.5, and 15 feet. The flag poles are constructed of a strong flexible carbon composite material. These three sizes are available as a “quick ship” option, meaning the company will conduct one-sided printing in 24 or 48 hours, depending on the pricing structure chosen by the end user. For less rushed turnaround, Creative Banner also offers teardrop sail signs at six feet, double- or single-sided print in addition to razor sail signs at seven feet, single- or double-sided print.

Expand International’s Expand PromoFlag is available in either its Teardrop or SharkFin shapes in multiple heights. They can be printed single or double sided. Ground bases are available in x-base, square plate, or ground stake. For extra durability, customers can pair a plate or base with a doughnut sandbag.

North America Display offers feather flags and street pole flags. It uses all-polyester flag fabric that is lightweight and semi-transparent. Its double-sided flags feature an added liner to block light and improve two-way readability of the message.

Its single- and double-sided feather flags are available in five shapes and four sizes, encompassing 40 product combinations. Priced between $99 and $464, they range in size from 7.2 to 17.1 feet. The price includes a tapered fiberglass rod, fabric carry bag, and ground stake with rotating feature. “The strength and durability of our fiberglass poles differentiate us from the competition,” note Bookout and Correa.
The company hems the fabric on the outside of the flag. The pole pocket is made with a bias-cut binding. A grommet at the bottom provides additional security to tie the flag to the bottom of the pole.

Orbus’ selection of flag systems includes the Zoom and Wind Dancer models, as well as single- and double-sided street pole flags. It also offers printing services for its advertising flags. It uses dye-sub printing on robust, lightweight fabric to ensure outdoor durability.

The Zoom line features three shapes—teardrop, feather, or straight—and each is available in three-, four-, or five-meter sizes. They are designed to make it simple for an advertiser to attract attention. The single- or double-sided graphics rotate in the wind to avoid tearing or fraying, and kits are available with an indoor weighted base or outdoor ground stake for variety. Several accessories are available with the poles to tailor mounting to different environments, including a weighted outdoor base, auger base for use on beaches, or a drive-over base for sporting events or concerts. MSRP is $200 to $330 for the three-meter model, $300 to $550 for the four-meter version, and $400 to $750 for the five-meter. MSRP includes the cost of graphics printed by Orbus.

Wind Dancer is a line of single- or double-sided flag systems that offer robust construction, durability, and wind resistance for outdoor use. They are ideal for drawing attention to a storefront, concert, or festival. Available in three sizes from six to 12 feet high, the system features a hollow base that can be filled with water or sand as a weighing agent. Designed for easy assembly and a sleek look, the MSRP is between $300 and $980 depending on the size.

Tex Visions offers a wide selection of advertising flags and banners, with print dimensions from 12×12 to 236×98 inches. The company provides single-reverse and double-sided layouts as well as portrait and landscape orientation. Prices start at $42.68. Most of its products utilize a flame retardant polyester fabric, while specialty fabrics are also available, including the company’s Varioflag product, which features a mesh appearance but is polyester. It includes self-sealing edges that allow flags to be finished with cut sides to promote longevity. Finishing can be customized, but the traditional approach is hemmed sides with header tape and grommets.

The Bowflag line is one of Tex Visions’ top products. It is available in a variety of sizes and shapes, including teardrop, arrow, bullet/surfboard, shield, kite, concave, straight, angled, and convex. Printed on durable knitted polyester, the Bowflag systems enable easy change outs of shapes and sizes. The pole sleeves are printable to extend messaging space and create a smooth appearance. Highly customizable, the systems are used indoors and outdoors, and don’t require wind for full visibility of the graphic. Most Bowflags utilize a fitted pole system, but the company also offers some specialty mounting options for on-the-go advertising. These include a backpack mounting system, ideal for mobile display at a special event, and clip-on car flags that can withstand driving speeds.

Other Tex Visions options include T-Pole, a flagpole for events that uses a banner arm to fully display the graphic. Featuring adjustable height, four customizable models offer durable knitted polyester. Single-reverse and double-sided flags are available for the easily assembled system. Sizes range from 8.9 to 19.6 feet, and prices start at $146.93. A smaller Portable Flagpole is also available, starting at $78.11. There are several models between eight and 15 feet, with or without banner arms. The company also offers customizable street banners in heights from three to ten feet, with prices starting at $52.92. The mounting system features aviation-grade fiberglass hardware and the flag fabric is durable knitted polyester. They are easy to install and no additional hardware is required for switching prints.

Long May They Wave
Advertising flags are an effective way to promote. The customer’s messaging literally stands out from the background. Whether stationary or mobile, inside or outside, digitally printed fabric is eye catching and memorable. Combining durability and portability, advertisers maximize their budgets with a product that can be reused and repositioned.

Oct2015, Digital Output

Innovative Packaging

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Innovative Packaging

By Melissa Donovan

Packaging is a broad, all-encompassing term that many applications fall under—from flexible packaging to shrink sleeves, polybag wraps, and traditional corrugated board. Depending on the nature of your business and the printers you use, products offered vary significantly. With digital printing, personalization and short run jobs are often the driver.

Stickered Packaging
Virtuoso Graphics began in 2004. The business, which today operates out of a 2,078 square foot shop in Houston, TX, originally started out as a sign and poster printer. However, market demand swayed the business’ planned path and the company began outputting stickers and labels for packaging and other items on a constant basis.

Today the print provider services mostly the locals around Houston, but has executed work for businesses in MN, PA, and VA. Three full-time employees in addition to the founder of the business can be found creating runs of labels and/or stickers anywhere from 10,000 to 50,000 pieces. In addition to labels and stickers, Virtuoso Graphics also offers a number of products including acrylic signs, aluminum signs, ADA and Braille signs, banner stands, banners, magnetic car signs, vehicle graphics, wallpaper, and window graphics.

While the business initially worked with a printer from another vendor, in 2005 Thomas Wink, founder/CEO, Virtuoso Graphics, met a representative from Roland DGA Corporation who showcased output off of a wide format Roland device. Wink was instantly enamored with the efficiency of the printer and the quality of the Roland ECO-SOL MAX ink.

In response, he purchased a 30-inch VersaCAMM VP-300 in 2005, in 2006 two VersaCAMM VP-540s, and the company’s most recent acquisition was a VersaCAMM VS-640 64-inch printer about a year and a half ago.

All of the printers are constantly running. So much so, that although they offer both printing and cutting capabilities, Wink needed to purchase additional standalone Roland cutters to offset some of the finishing work.

Much of Virtuoso Graphics’ packaging requests involve placing adhesive-based clear or glossy vinyl on a bottle or another product. The newest printer, the Roland VersaCAMM VS-640, is equipped with white ink, which allows Wink to print stickers and labels on clear material, giving the appearance that the package in question was printed on directly.

In addition to labels and stickers printed off of the Roland printers, Virtuoso Graphics also offers domed labels in house, which involves finishing a printed vinyl piece with a clear liquid that provides a three-dimensional, bubbled, or lens effect.

Eyes Open
One of Virtuoso Graphics’ biggest customers is NovaLash, a cosmetic provider founded in 2004. The company offers eyelash extension products globally. It repeatedly requests stickers and labels to place on many of its packaged products, from circular pots that hold eyelash adhesive to tubes of mascara.

In total, NovaLash spends about $48,000 a year in labels. Most months the print provider produces anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 labels for the company. Turnaround time is short and the Roland printers aid in getting the job out of the door.

For example, a recent request from NovaLash included 50,000 labels. From receipt of the file to finished output, the job took five days. The cosmetic company commonly sends over pre-designed graphics and Virtuoso Graphics’ production team prepares the files to print on the Roland printers.

A high-end cosmetic label looks for quality in its imaging, hoping to portray a sophisticated feel in all of its brand messaging. Wink utilizes Roland VersaWorks to color manage all of the files and ensure each label or sticker matches from run to run.

“Not only are the printers great at printing small detail labels, but they are also great at matching PMS colors without guessing and adjusting levels of colors,” he explains.

Clear to the Future
Thanks to the arsenal of Roland printers behind Wink and his team, he is ready to tackle any kind of print job.

White ink expands Virtuoso Graphics’ services. These kinds of features allow the print provider to grow its package printing capabilities.

Oct2015, Digital Output