The divide between digital and offset is rapidly closing with a new range of production presses to be launched by Fuji Xerox Australia. As the sixth generation of DocuColor presses and with an impressive and proven track record for reliability, the new DocuColor 7002/8002 range features two key engineering changes that put the product in a class of its own.

Rangefinder magazine readers were able to have a firsthand look – and feel – of the impact of the Kodak NexPress Dimensional Printing System when the August cover of the monthly professional photographer magazine was printed using this innovative and award-winning Kodak solution that creates raised, 3D printing effects.

The Spicers Paper much anticipated ’Essentials Kit’ in now out.

Ricoh’s colour printers recently won a number of Buyers Laboratory Inc (BLI) awards for their outstanding performance, including an award for Most Outstanding Colour Printer Line for 2009 – the third time it’s received the award since its inception in 2005.

HP continues to add new content to its HP Graphic Arts Channel enabling Print Service Providers (PSPs) to access the latest creative ideas and hear from peers around the world.

HP has unveiled a range of advanced digital printing solutions and alliances at LabelExpo Asia 2009 that will allow Print Service Providers (PSPs) in the label and packaging industry to capture new business opportunities. PSPs can also leverage a strong eco-system of solution partners that will enable them to deliver the right solutions incorporating the latest in digital label technology for their customers.

The Australian Packaging Machinery Association, in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Packaging, has announced that submissions are open for the second annual scholarship program which will enable a packaging engineer the opportunity to complete a Diploma in Packaging Technology.

Fujifilm Australia has released the new Acuity Advance HS large format UV inkjet printer, the next generation printer in the highly successful Acuity series. First launched in April 2007, Acuity has quickly become the fastest selling flatbed UV inkjet printers in the market today.

Value adding, through embossing and foiling for example, is still the best way for printers and packagers to distinguish themselves from the pack. These processes add distinction to the finished product that will also set their clients apart from the competition, while adding directly to the all important bottom line.