Future Links December 1st 2014

New scanning program makes 3D printing more accessible
ItSeez3D is a new scanning program that has the potential to make 3D printing more accessible to end users who formerly could not afford high-level scanning technology. The program works with mobile technology such as handhelds.
More at Forbes

HP and Kama collaborate on all-in-one digital carton maker
Short production runs for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, health care and food products have confronted packaging producers with new challenges. To meet these challenges, HP Indigo and Kama have jointly developed a complete solution for digital printing in HP Indigo quality and high value Kama finishing. Kama and HP Indigo have been working together since 2010, this is their latest joint venture for the packaging market.
More at i-grafix

Print book sales on the rise again
For the first time since 2008, the sales of print books are increasing. In the first 47 weeks of 2014, about 2 percent more books have been sold compared to the same time period in 2013. According to Nielsen BookScan, the signs for an increase for the year are promising, if the holiday season is as good as last year’s.
More at Publishers’ Weekly 

Case study: Printer expands its line of services
A traditional printing business, Openbook, faced growing expectations from clients and turned this into an ambitious challenge to grow the business. It now offers graphic design, pre-press and print management support for the range of products it offers, which include corporate stationery, labels and packaging, school diaries, multi-part forms, short run digital with variable data and a specialist expertise in book publishing. This case study shows how Openbook managed the challenge successfully.
More at ProPrint

New UK federation for the creative industries
A new federation of businesses from the printing industry and other creative enterprises promise to speak with a strong voice. Some 200 companies in the UK have come together to form the Creative Industries Federation. Representing publishing, photography, fashion, digital media and the performing arts, amongst others, it will hope to promote cross-fertilization between these areas while also furthering their interests at the national and international levels.
More at Output Magazine

Spanish government supports 3D printing
Spain’s board of ministers has voted to support for HP’s 3D printing endeavors with a 21.3 million Euro investment fund, according to press reports. HP employs 2,600 workers from its main printing division in Barcelona and expects to roll out 3D printing products to the public in 2016.
More at The Olive Press

New packaging with in-carton video screen
Rondo-Pak has developed a multi-media packaging solution that features a thin, lightweight HD video screen complete with sound. Rondo-Pak, a leading provider of folding cartons to the pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device industries, positions the new packaging as ideal for product launches, patient education kits, physician training kits, clinical trials and sales demonstrations. The carton can also provide additional product info or special offers via smartphone right at the point of purchase or use.
More at Packaging Europe

SIG Combibloc to be acquired by Onex
SIG Combibloc, one of the largest producers of beverage cartons in the world is about to be bought by private equity firm Onex. The Canadian firm Onex will acquire SIG from the Reynolds Group for 3.75 billion Euros. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2015 once all regulatory hurdles have been cleared.
More at EUWID Pulp and Paper