Label Image has invested in a Durst Tau 330 E UV inkjet press to support its ongoing commitment to operational growth and high-quality customer service. Formed in 1986, the Australian company was acquired by Nick and Emma Godwin in 2015.

Since then, the converter has made a number of improvements and investments focused on driving growth and maintaining a high level of service and support for their expanding customer base.

Today, Label Image is recognized for its sales team, e-commerce shop front and digital printing systems. It challenges the market with new ideas and solutions developed from its understanding of customer needs, and executes environmentally astute print-on-demand solutions that reduce inventory and deliver shorter turnaround times.

The latest in digital inkjet technology was chosen to complement Label Image’s conventional label printing systems. Explains Nick Godwin, “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 recognized that having a lower capital cost press doesn’t always equate to a lower total cost of print,” he adds.

Emma Godwin continues, “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.”

ROI was not the only consideration when investing in the Durst Tau 330 E. Important, too, was the broad range of media it could handle without the mess, cost or sourcing of primers or post coatings on materials. They range from direct thermal, cosmetic, food and beverage to industrial. In fact, it covers most commercial labels. Other reasons were the white ink opacity achieved in the single pass print process reducing production time and operator flexibility.

Label Image’s single-pass direct printing Durst Tau 330 E has no blankets or transfer components that could compromise printed color or densities. It is coupled with the Durst Workflow Label system including variable data printing, to deliver a consultative and creative approach. It has enabled Label Image to bring the majority of their outsourced jobs back inhouse. For example, jobs that were either too short- to mid-range in length, had a tight turnaround time, required customization or personalization and multiple SKU applications, to name just a few.

It also includes back up and support from Durst and its Australian partner Photo Electronics Services (PES). Nick concludes, “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.”