Canon has been at the forefront of this transformation, developing innovative technologies that cater to the diverse needs of the packaging industry. Gary Stockenstroom, product manager at Canon South Africa, emphasises the company’s dedication to advancing digital print solutions: ‘At Canon, we are committed to providing cutting-edge technologies that empower businesses to meet the evolving demands of the packaging market.’
Central to Canon’s packaging solutions is the Colorado series, featuring the revolutionary UVgel technology. This technology offers high-quality, scratch-resistant prints that often eliminate the need for additional lamination, streamlining processes for PSPs. The Colorado M-series, a fully modular UVgel printer, allows businesses to configure the system to their specific needs and upgrade later with features like mixed gloss/matte printing or white ink. Integrated finishing solutions are also available for high-volume packaging applications, enhancing productivity and versatility.
The Arizona series of flatbed printers further expands Canon’s packaging capabilities. These printers are designed for a broad range of applications, enabling PSPs to produce high-quality packaging materials on various substrates. This versatility allows for the creation of bespoke designs, enhancing the unboxing experience and meeting growing consumer demand for personalised packaging.
For the self-adhesive labels market, Canon’s LabelStream 2000 series offers an industrial-scale, six-colour UV inkjet conversion platform. This solution caters to high-volume production needs, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency. The LabelStream 2000 series exemplifies Canon’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions across various packaging applications.
The digital advantage in packaging
Digital printing technology’s capability to swiftly produce short runs of variable, full-colour prints aligns seamlessly with the packaging industry’s trend toward segmentation. This agility enables brands to efficiently and profitably customise packaging designs for specific demographics and audiences, even personalising primary packaging to individual customers. Such tailored experiences foster brand loyalty and create meaningful differentiation in the market.
Moreover, digital printing allows brands to respond promptly to evolving market trends, test new products, launch targeted promotions and seize commercial opportunities. Its inherent sustainability – producing only the necessary packaging, thereby reducing waste and minimising inventory – further enhances its appeal.
To further support PSPs in embracing digital packaging production, Canon introduced the UVgel Packaging Factory. This end-to-end automated solution enables in-house digital printing, allowing for short, custom runs at digital speeds and quality. It provides a productive and profitable digital alternative to traditional litho lamination, enhancing creative offerings and operational efficiency.
Digital printing technology’s capability to swiftly produce short runs of variable, full-colour prints aligns seamlessly with the packaging industry’s trend toward segmentation. This agility enables brands to efficiently and profitably customise packaging designs for specific demographics and audiences, even personalising primary packaging to individual customers. Such tailored experiences foster brand loyalty and create meaningful differentiation in the market.
Moreover, digital printing allows brands to respond promptly to evolving market trends, test new products, launch targeted promotions and seize commercial opportunities. Its inherent sustainability – producing only the necessary packaging, thereby reducing waste and minimising inventory – further enhances its appeal.
To further support PSPs in embracing digital packaging production, Canon introduced the UVgel Packaging Factory. This end-to-end automated solution enables in-house digital printing, allowing for short, custom runs at digital speeds and quality. It provides a productive and profitable digital alternative to traditional litho lamination, enhancing creative offerings and operational efficiency.
‘The shift towards digital packaging is more than just a trend – it’s a necessary evolution,’ concludes Gary. ‘With Canon’s digital printing solutions, businesses can embrace this change with confidence, ensuring they stay ahead of the competition while meeting the demands of an increasingly personalised and sustainable market.’
