Driven by technological developments and shifting customer expectations, the packaging sector has changed dramatically throughout the previous ten years. Among these developments, inkjet printing is one that most revolutionizes corrugated converters notably.
Simply put, inkjet printing is a non-contact digital printing technique wherein tiny liquid ink droplets are sprayed directly onto surfaces like paper, plastic, or corrugated boards. So, let’s explore how it can boost profits for corrugated board converters.
Benefits of Inkjet Printing for Corrugated Converters
These converters allow corrugated boards to be changed into boxes, trays, and displays. They ensure that packaging satisfies modern customer expectations in terms of both functionality and aesthetics.
To remain competitive in a market that requires environmentally sustainable and visually attractive designs, many converters have resorted to modern technologies such as inkjet printing.
Given the fast spread of digital inkjet printing in the corrugated packaging industry, this move is not a surprise. Overall, here’s an overview of the primary benefits that help inkjet printing be a preferred choice for corrugated converters:
Enhanced Customization and Flexibility
Modern customers increasingly want individualized experiences, including packaging. Packaging, whether it’s regional branding, seasonal artwork, or a customized message, may help a product stand out. Inkjet printing enables this by providing unparalleled customization options.
Corrugated converters can quickly generate a variety of package designs using inkjet printing. This versatility is especially valuable for promotional campaigns or limited-time deals when distinctive designs play an essential role in enticing buyers.
Finn MacDonald, president of Independent II, notes how inkjet printing’s versioning flexibility provides “customers for life”, highlighting the technology’s long-term usefulness.
The capacity to instantly alter and customize packaging allows firms to stand out in a competitive market. For example, e-commerce companies may employ inkjet technology to print personalized “thank you” notes or branded imagery right into boxes, thus improving the unpacking experience.
Reduced Production Costs
Another significant advantage is inkjet printing’s ability to lower production costs. Two time-consuming and expensive procedures in conventional printing processes like flexography and lithography are plate-making and setup. These costs might become excessive, especially for very customized or manufactured in small numbers products.
Inkjet printing is a less expensive option for businesses as it can be done without time-consuming preparations in corrugated converters or plates. Companies that target specific markets or often change their packaging designs may particularly benefit from this.
The White Paper by Dr. Sean Smyth shows how shorter print runs made possible by inkjet technology allow for quality not to be sacrificed. This cost-effectiveness allows companies to more readily test packaging designs or meet the particular needs of their consumers.
The absence of plates removes the need for frequent maintenance or replacement, therefore decreasing expenses even further. Reducing operational costs allows converters to concentrate their efforts on enhancing other aspects of their manufacturing processes.
Faster Turnaround Times
Particularly with the expansion of e-commerce and the growing need for same-day or next-day delivery, speed has become a primary factor in the packaging company. Traditional printing methods can create bottlenecks in production due to the time needed for plate-making and outsourcing print jobs.
Inkjet printing solves this problem in corrugated converters by offering near-instant print output. For instance, creating and mounting flexo plates can take 1–3 business days, while sourcing litho sheets might take over 15 days.
By passing these delays totally, inkjet printing lets converters react fast to consumer needs and satisfy strict deadlines.
This speedier manufacturing cycle not only raises client satisfaction but also helps converters in landing new contracts. It’s because in the fast-paced market of today, companies that can provide high-quality packaging within limited times have a significant competitive edge.
Sustainability and Waste Reduction
In the packaging sector of today, sustainability is almost a must. Because they are recyclable, corrugated boards are already seen as ecologically beneficial. But by cutting waste and supporting more sustainable methods, inkjet printing adds even another degree of environmental awareness.
Inkjet printing reduces overproduction, which is a typical problem with conventional printing techniques, by allowing print-on-demand capabilities. This means converter may print just what they need, therefore preventing the build-up of outdated inventory.
Reducing surplus manufacturing not only helps to save expenses but also dramatically reduces the environmental impact of the packing operation.
Moreover, inkjet technology often makes use of water-based inks, which are less detrimental to the environment than solvent-based inks. This fits the rising customer taste for environmentally friendly packaging and goods.
Increased Market Opportunities
Overall, the adaptability of inkjet printing brings up new markets and income opportunities. The options range from eye-catching visuals for in-store displays to customized unpacking experiences for e-commerce.
According to a Smithers analysis, the volume of digital inkjet printing in corrugated packaging increased by more than 57% every year from 2016 to 2021, demonstrating its fast acceptance.
So, if you have been thinking about switching to inkjet printing, now is the moment. The sector is promising with prospects, and early users are already earning significant benefits.
Whether it’s through cost savings, operational efficiency, or customer satisfaction, inkjet is proving to be a game-changer for corrugated converters. See a complete list of continuous inkjet printers here!
Read About: Inkjet vs. Laser: Which Coding and Marking Technology is Right for You?
Referensi:
https://www.domino-printing.com/en/blog/2022/postprint-whitepaper-blog
https://www.codico-distributors.com/latest-news/inkjet-is-making-money-for-corrugated-converters
