Kevin Flippence, general manager of Kirk Group says, “The technology will shape the future of the business and deliver significant savings for our customers whilst maintaining brand integrity.”

The Group’s direction is largely focused upon procurement, marketing or brand managers at major FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) companies such as Simplot, PepsiCo, Kimberly Clark and Nestlé.

The company also has long term relationships with a wide range of flexographic printers, but its focus is on “direct communication with the manufacturer,” says Flippence.

The flexographic operation is based in Melbourne, and Kirk Group also has production sites in Sydney and Brisbane. Flippence says the company, which employs 85 people, “Works at the quality end of the market generating colour correct proofs, plates and cylinders”.

Flippence also explains that the reproductive quality of the new Flexcel plates is impressive. He says, “These plates are able to hold a much higher density of colour and still maintain the full tonal range enabling us to compete with gravure printing without having to go to seven colours.”

Also commenting, Steve Ford, sales & strategic product group director, Kodak Australasia says, “In this current market, printers and FMCG companies are looking to reduce costs. I believe the Kodak Flexcel NX Plate technology will enable gravure work that is currently being produced offshore, to be converted to flexo and competitively printed in Australia.

Ford continues, “Packaging is a fast growing segment for Kodak worldwide with significant growth year on year. We are committed to providing packaging solutions that preserve brand equity and security, enhance shelf appeal and drive efficiency from design through to print production.”

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter