Future Links May 13th
Here are our daily links with the most important news from the printing industry. Today they feature the modest comeback of printed books, 3D Systems’ GibbsCam2016, Agfa Graphic’s cloud-based PrintSphere, HP’s customized labels on Planters peanuts, Amcor’s acquisition of Plastic Moulders, Domino’s plans for drupa 2016 and Unilever’s efforts to promote sustainable packaging.
Printed books make a modest comeback
Sales figures for printed books have increased for the first time in years in the UK, according to the Publishers Association. This year’s annual report shows physical book sales up to 2.76 billion British Pounds in 2015 from 2.748 billion British Pounds in 2014. Among the growth drivers were coloring books for adults.
More at The Telegraph
3D Systems introduces GibbsCAM 2016
Transforming digital concepts into physical realities requires powerful software. 3D Systems has now released its GibbsCAM 2016 software for production machining. The software builds on the Universal Kinematic Machine (UKM) technology of the previous edition. It delivers several improvements to increase efficiency, accelerate programming speed, and enhance visualization and accuracy for CNC machine programming.
More at 3D fab + print
Agfa Graphics launches cloud-based PrintSphere
It’s all ready for takeoff: Agfa Graphics is launching PrintSphere and is now offering print service providers a standardized way to send and receive files. This adds new levels of automation to all existing Agfa workflow solutions. This software as a service also provides customer service representatives (CSR) with a dashboard to properly manage their customers and offers an overview of active jobs.
More at Graphic Repro Online
Planters peanuts chooses HP for anniversary custom label
Planters brand peanuts is celebrating the 100th birthday of its mascot Mr. Peanut with custom packaging created with HP SmartStream Mosaic technology. Planters, a Kraft Heinz Company brand, partnered with HP to create one-of-a-kind designs on Planters’ classic dry roasted Mr. Peanut jars, using HP SmartStream Mosaic technology. This limited edition packaging features a dancing Mr. Peanut amidst bright and fireworks in a multitude of colors and designs.
More at Labels & Labeling
Amcor expands label technology through acquisition
Amcor has acquired Canadian rigid plastics business, Plastic Moulders in a 40 million USD deal to expand its labeling technology. The business operates a single plant in Toronto and has capabilities in precision injection molding and in-mold labeling with sales generating approximately 37 million USD. Amcor’s executive general manager of corporate affairs, John Murray told ‘Australian Printer’ that Amcor was most drawn to its in-mold labeling technology.
More at i-Grafix
Domino showcases high-speed variable-pagination booklet printing
Domino’s plans for drupa 2016 include showcasing its K630i high-speed compact single-engine duplex ink jet press producing multi-page booklets on an integrated system in partnership with Kern AG and IBIS Bindery Systems. The system can produce up to 7000 booklets per hour. Domino views the book market as a high growth opportunity.
More at Ink World Magazine
Unilever is promoting eco-friendlier packaging
Unilever is working on a number of solutions to reduce the environmental impact of beauty care packaging. One is called MuCell Technology and works by eliminating the middle layer of a material and injecting it with air bubbles. This enables the packaging to retain its durability while using less plastic. Another area Unilever is focusing on is increased recovery through recycling and reusable packaging.
More at Triple Pundit