Shelf Space: There's Something About a Package
One of the most compelling things about packaging is how the convergence of graphic design, printing and converting results in the creation of engaging, visually satisfying, and superbly crafted labels and packages. Whether it is a three-dimensional container, a folding carton, a flexible bag or pouch, or a label on a bottle, the results range from simple to elegant to exotic. And they all come together at the packagePRINTING Excellence Awards.
This year's entries came in from all over the United States and Canada, plus several from Australia. It was exciting to see them all spread out on three conference tables and to watch as five judges—all industry veterans—spent a day taking a very close look at some 115 entries. Loupes in hand, they scrutinized the most intricate details of every entry, discussed the nuances of how an image was printed and what details separated the winners from the other contenders in each of 23 categories.
When everything was judged, it turned out that each of the top three was really a candidate for Best in Show. So those top picks were finalized for first, second and third place overall, plus the winners in each category. Take a look at the story beginning on page 8. And if you look at the winning entries and find yourself thinking, "My company can do better than that," then be sure to enter the 29th Annual Excellence Awards in 2015.
Flexo, Digital, or Both?
The Excellence Awards brought in several entries that used a mix of printing technologies in an effort to create a certain effect that one type of press cannot provide on its own. These were great to see, but there's another side to the mixing of printing technologies. For instance, we know that many converters are already using both digital and flexo on a daily basis. But how well do these presses work together to meet the changing demands and workloads of modern converters? To find out, we talked with two converters who use both technologies and are keeping all their presses full and growing their businesses in the process. They find there is plenty of work to justify the investment in digital and to keep their flexo and digital systems running at optimal levels of productivity. Moreover, each converter has savvy customers who understand the capabilities of each type of press and how they can leverage the machines to their advantage. To see how these converters make it all work, check out our story on this bottom line coexistence.
Labelexpo returns to Chicagoland
If it's an even numbered year Labelexpo must be in Chicago! And you'll once again find it at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill., a short cab ride from O'Hare airport, from September 9–11. Some 425 exhibitors will be lining the aisles and you'll find a host of conference sessions, keynotes and panel discussions to tune in to, along with on-the-floor educational sessions on many aspects of package printing. This show always reflects the energy of the packaging side of printing and pulls in a diverse audience from all over the western hemisphere. I hope we can run into each other there. Would love to meet up. pP
