No Rest for the Weary

High Demand at ON DEMAND

At press time, the ON DEMAND Exposition & Conference in Boston was days away from opening to the public, and in preparation, InfoTrends analysts disclosed key developments for the market, likely to manifest later this year. High-speed, high-volume roll-fed inkjet product roll-outs are expected to be huge in 2008. Consequently, they predicted this will impact “cut-sheet digital and offset volumes as the speed, productivity, quality, media latitude and cost-of-operation of this new generation of products gains the attention of print service providers.”

In line with InfoTrends’ forecasts, Datatel Resources is experiencing growth in laser cut sheets. Simon attributed this to the company’s investment in UV-printing technologies to ensure cured products.

Similarly, Brown observed the shift to laser cut sheets or plain stock paper. As a result, Newtown purchased a six-color Diddie press with online shrink wrapping, enabling its laser cut sheets to be competitively priced for distributors.

Analysts also anticipate a heightened interest in the green movement. Suppliers and distributors once reluctant to implement eco-friendly initiatives into their product lines are now quickly moving toward this trend—their customers are demanding it.

Simon said Datatel Resources is awaiting formal chain-of-custody certification for SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), and expects to receive final word within the next 60 days. Meanwhile, Newtown has initiated a waste recycling program. Brown noted CRW Graphics actively supports the FSC, and is already FSC-certified. “The FSC does not just simply recycle; it represents a commitment by every FSC member to insure the responsible management and replenishment of forests both domestic and foreign,” she stressed.

Ennis will take a targeted marketing approach to promote green initiatives in 2008, as well. The company uses Glatfelter’s NatureSolv, carbonless capsules organically-based through the use of renewable resources, for printing all of its carbonless forms. All Ennis facilities presently use soy- or vegetable-based ink, and recycle all production waste paper, Osterloh stated.