Perth-based Label Image has invested in a Durst Tau 330 E UV inkjet press, supplied through Photo Electronic Services (PES).
It is the first of its kind in Australia, and the second Tau model in the country.
Label Image says the 330 E has allowed the company to bring the majority of their outsourced jobs back inhouse. This included jobs that were either too short- to mid-range in length, had a tight turnaround time, required customization or personalization and multiple SKU applications.
The Tau 330 E, or ‘Economical’ model is an entry level version of the Durst Tau 330, which the company says can be upgraded within 24 hours of contacting them. It gives a lower cost of entry for PSPs, while also offering flexibility if significant work comes through, or sales volume goes up over time.
The Tau 330 E complements Label Image’s conventional label printing systems. Nick Goodwin, co-owner, Label Image explains, "We first assessed the basics of adaptability, reliability, quality and the opportunities offered to enhance their client offerings. The Durst Tau 330 E ticked all those boxes and more. Its productivity, print quality and colour consistency were stand out capabilities.
“During the extensive decision-making process the growth potential for Label Image was crucial. We considered the option of additional services and offerings but also wanted a return on investment (ROI) model that made sense and allowed us to scale up to meet future demand. We also recognised that having a lower capital cost press doesn’t always equate to a lower total cost of print.”
Emma Goodwin, co-owner, Label Image, says, “The Durst Tau is remarkable at reducing media waste. We can print a press proof and rewind the media to the next label start point and immediately begin printing with no waste. This means the first label is a billable label, reducing waste and costs, something I have not seen on any other press to date. Nor have I seen this level of image quality on any other inkjet press.”
Beyond ROI, Label Image says the broad range of media it could handle without the mess, cost or sourcing of primers or post coatings on materials, was a key factor. The press can produce labels across direct thermal, cosmetic, food and beverage to industrial, covering most commercial labels. Other convincers were the stunning white ink opacity achieved in the single pass print process reducing production time and operator flexibility.
Unlike conventional equipment, Label Image’s single-pass direct printing Durst Tau 330 E has no blankets or transfer components that could compromise printed colour or densities. It is coupled with the Durst Workflow Label system including variable data printing.
Nick Goodwin says, “Our experience with Durst and PES has been excellent both from a pre and post installation perspective. The installation was completed within a week and operators trained immediately after allowing us to transition into production sooner than expected.”
Helmuth Munter, segment manager, Durst Label & Packaging Printing, says, “It is great to see another company such as Label Image adopting our Configure Your Digital Future approach by partnering with us to support their business growth aspirations and investigate new markets. We are delighted to be able to support their ambitious goals and help them expand their business reach.”
Formed in 1986, Label Image was acquired by Nick and Emma Godwin in 2015. Since then they have made a number of improvements and investments which they say are focused on driving growth and maintaining a high level of service and support for their expanding customer base.
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