This article first appeared in the July 2025 issue of Australian Printer
At the forefront of print evolution, Konica Minolta has championed the next wave of print technology through advancements in capability and features with coatings and inks that enable a greater ability to print on a growing range of media and substrates.
Its flagship founding AccurioJet KM-1e platform and its successor, the new AccurioJet 30000 represent a new generation of UV inkjet technology, redefining production standards with vibrant, durable output, and media versatility.
In partnership with MGI, Konica Minolta has advanced digital embellishment with UV inkjet-based spot varnish and foiling solutions – eliminating the need for dies or consumables and enabling on-demand, sustainable luxury finishes.
Officially launched in Australia at PacPrint 2025, the AccurioJet 30000 incorporates new lightfast inks designed for extended durability in high-exposure environments. Furthermore, its launch of food-safe inks and varnishes for both the MGI EVO models and AccurioShine 3600 platforms align with growing packaging demands. Together, these technologies aim to transform not only design capabilities
but also operational flexibility for commercial and packaging printers.
The rise of specialty papers and finishes
According to Konica Minolta Australia, today’s print buyers are looking beyond ink on paper – they’re demanding sensory experiences and sustainable substance.
“We’ve observed a consistent rise in demand for recyclable and uncoated substrates that reflect a natural, tactile finish,” explained Konica Minolta Australia industrial print product manager James Rolland.
“Simultaneously, demand for embellishments such as spot varnishes and digital foil is growing year-over-year, particularly in premium and luxury sectors. As CMYK print volumes normalise or decline, printers are finding new margins in high-value applications – luxury packaging, limited-edition runs, and personalised marketing collateral. Specialty papers paired with embellishment elevate the perception of print. These premium effects help our customers create ‘sticky’ clients who return for differentiation and creative excellence.”
Helping print providers stand out
To empower print providers with creative excellence, Konica Minolta Australia emphasises the need to go beyond quality alone – they need distinction. According to Rolland, the AccurioShine 3600 and MGI platforms unlock this advantage through 3D spot varnishing, digital foil, and variable data embellishment, enabling unique, customised finishes at scale.
“These innovations are instrumental in creating premium, personalised applications for sectors like cosmetics, wine and spirits, and boutique publishing,” Rolland said.
Konica Minolta Australia production print product marketing manager Grant Thomas said, “Our high lustre white toner on the new AccurioPress C14010S/C12010S and AccurioLabel 400 models has expanded our customers’ print capability on specialty media, enabling stunning print options on speciality media such as black, Kraft and rainbow coated substrates. These capabilities let providers diversify their offerings, expand into new verticals, and command higher margins.”
Sustainability in focus
Reducing environmental impact through materials is also key for Konica Minolta. Its digital print solutions are designed to significantly lower environmental impact through intelligent production models and eco-conscious materials. Digital print-on-demand workflows reduce unnecessary overproduction and inventory waste, while the certified deinkable toners and inks ensure clean recyclability of printed materials.
With high lightfast properties built into its toner and ink formulations, the company has reduced the reliance on plastic-based laminates and coatings, supporting more sustainable finishing. Its Simitri toner, derived in part from vegetable-based materials, is another testament to its eco-led innovation.
“Environmental responsibility is no longer optional; it’s essential. From the KM-1e and AccurioJet 30000 Green Brochure to our leading AccurioPress print systems, our commitment to sustainability is a key focus for print production, now and into the future,” Thomas said.
Looking ahead
According to Rolland, the future of print materials lies at the intersection of functionality, creativity, and responsibility.
“We anticipate innovation will continue around eco-conscious substrates, sustainable embellishment, and versatile ink systems that perform across an expanding spectrum of materials,” he said.
“Food-safe inks, recyclable foils, and tactile coatings that biodegrade are next in line for development. Simultaneously, AI-driven personalisation and digital workflows will push the boundaries of what’s possible – from real-time localised packaging to one-to-one luxury direct mail.
“As supply chains evolve and consumers demand transparency and sustainability, digital print technologies will become even more critical – bridging creative design with environmental accountability. Konica Minolta is committed globally to equip our partners with the print equipment and tools to continue to grow sustainability in print and further develop creativity and our partner’s competitive edge in the print market.”
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