09.19.05
Award-winning narrow web label and flexible packaging printer OPM has signed a new two-year agreement with specialist inkmaker Intercolor for the exclusive supply of UV curing and water-based flexo inks.
A key element of the agreement was the substantial service and training package that supported the leading-edge ink technology. Unlike many ink suppliers, Intercolor officials said they did not offer the lowest prices nor supply free-of-charge equipment and in-plant ink technicians, which would reduce profitability to a level that would preclude detailed customer support at all levels.
The proposal included equipment and technology that is not common to the label printer but one that provides real savings in press downtime, ink consumption, waste reduction (most notably in quicker make-ready times, as ink goes to press right the first time) and stock holdings.
When the package was first installed, the Intercolor staff spent as much time as was needed at OPM to methodically train the OPM staff in the operation of the systems. The emphasis on training was important as it was continued until all staff fully understood the systems.
“I know the inks are not the cheapest, but they are consistent and the best value so I am happy to make the investment given the savings provided,” OPM Group chairman Chris Ellison said. “I would rather have quality than a saving on price, and without Intercolor’s commitment and resource, we cannot get the best.”
A key element of the agreement was the substantial service and training package that supported the leading-edge ink technology. Unlike many ink suppliers, Intercolor officials said they did not offer the lowest prices nor supply free-of-charge equipment and in-plant ink technicians, which would reduce profitability to a level that would preclude detailed customer support at all levels.
The proposal included equipment and technology that is not common to the label printer but one that provides real savings in press downtime, ink consumption, waste reduction (most notably in quicker make-ready times, as ink goes to press right the first time) and stock holdings.
When the package was first installed, the Intercolor staff spent as much time as was needed at OPM to methodically train the OPM staff in the operation of the systems. The emphasis on training was important as it was continued until all staff fully understood the systems.
“I know the inks are not the cheapest, but they are consistent and the best value so I am happy to make the investment given the savings provided,” OPM Group chairman Chris Ellison said. “I would rather have quality than a saving on price, and without Intercolor’s commitment and resource, we cannot get the best.”