Technology
Revolutionizing Print with Innovation and Sustainability
By Kevin Peters
Driving Innovation and Sustainability in Print
In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business environment, innovation and sustainability are not just buzzwords, they are essential elements that drive success. At SGK, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve by continuously investing in cutting-edge print technology that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our clients. Our recent investment in the HP Indigo 15K Digital Press is a testament to this commitment, and it represents a significant milestone in our journey toward enhancing the value stream within the larger SGK organization.
Empowering Brand Owners with Tangible Solutions
The HP Indigo 15K Digital Press brings a new dimension to our offerings by enabling the production of folding cartons, a critical component in packaging design. Much like our work with Metal Decorating, this press allows brand owners to see their package designs come to life, not just as digital concepts on a monitor, but as physical, printed boxes they can touch and feel. This tangible aspect of design is crucial for making informed decisions and underscores the importance of bridging the gap between digital visualization and real-world application.
The HP Indigo 15K Digital Press offers unparalleled versatility, supporting the widest range of substrates in the industry. From standard coated and uncoated papers to specialized materials like synthetics, metallics, self-adhesive, canvas, and folding carton, this press can seamlessly switch between them all. With application-specific inks and unlimited spot colors, including vivid, transparent, and premium white options, it delivers true-to-life color reproduction with the authentic look and feel of offset printing. The innovative printing process ensures consistent high quality, regardless of the substrate, preserving the integrity of each material while achieving exceptional detail and smoothness.
Sustainability at the Forefront
In addition to its innovative capabilities, the HP Indigo 15K Digital Press supports our sustainability goals. As businesses and consumers alike become more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable solutions in printing has never been higher. HP Indigo is leading the charge in sustainable printing by reducing carbon emissions, increasing circularity, and minimizing waste. Its digital presses eliminate the need for printing plates, reducing production waste, and prioritize energy efficiency through innovative design. Incorporating recycled materials and offering upgrades for extended product life, HP’s commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with SGK’s long-term strategy.
Adapting to an Evolving Market
The print industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past few years, particularly in the realm of point-of-sale marketing. As traditional print methods give way to digital and influencer-driven campaigns, SGK has adapted by investing in new technologies like the Metal Deco Canning press. This press allows us to expand our services to include the production of metal cans, catering to a growing market demand and positioning us as a leader in this niche. Our partnership with SGK’s Commercial Team has been instrumental in this endeavor, allowing us to produce plates, print cans, and support press checks for pilot metal cans designed by SGK.
Embracing Change and Driving Growth
Over my 25-year career at SGK, I’ve witnessed the evolution of the industry firsthand. From the days of single-color screen presses to the rise of large-format digital printing, the landscape has changed dramatically. Yet, through it all, our commitment to innovation has remained constant. By embracing new technologies and adapting to the needs of our clients, we have not only survived but thrived in a rapidly changing market.
The true value of SGK lies not only in the printing process itself, but in the critical services provided before, after, and in between. That’s why we aren’t only promise makers, but promise keepers, ensuring that we deliver on our commitments. Doing so requires the seamless coordination of both our commercial and operational functions, but with dedicated project managers sitting on-site every day with several of our client partners, we are fully equipped to manage large scale rollouts into the tens of thousands both nationally and globally. We speak the language of efficiency and take the complications out of the process so our clients can focus on what really matters – creating an enriching experience for their customers.
As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the print industry, the HP Indigo 15K Digital Press stands as a symbol of SGK’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. By providing brand owners with tangible, sustainable solutions, we are not only meeting the demands of today but also setting the stage for a successful future.