Brand owners are always looking for improvements and ways to enhance their product lines and such. A crucial part of this includes how their packaging is done. With the advancement of technology, one of the best ways to go about packaging innovation, in particular, is through digital printing.
Read on to learn more about how digital printing’s advantages boost packaging:
THE ADVANTAGE: Using Digital Printing Is Ideal for Implementing Anti-Counterfeiting
THE BOOST: The more popular a brand is, the more likely counterfeiting is bound to happen. Digital printing packaging can offer protection for any brand against this through covert and overt solutions. Microtext or unique marks that are nearly impossible to duplicate can be produced by digital inks quite easily.
THE ADVANTAGE: Using Digital Printing for Packaging Maximises Variable Data Printing
THE BOOST: Variable data printing is an excellent way for packaging to be customised digitally. Customer engagement, in turn, can be more personalised as well. There's a lot of flexibility afforded by digital printing in this sense, for reasons such as:
- Packaging for holidays and special occasions
- Packaging for loyal customer gratitude
- Packaging specific to certain regions
This particular boost is ideal for packaging to tie in so much better with marketing strategies.
THE ADVANTAGE: Using Digital Printing for Packaging Means Turnaround Is Much Faster
THE BOOST: Traditional printing requires a bit of setup that's not only made of multiple components, but quite time-consuming as well. Digital printing takes all of that and streamlines it to something much simpler. Updates are much easier to come by through this, as well.
There's a world of difference between a new plate being manufactured in the traditional way and a number of clicks to edit or create a digital file.
Small to medium print runs are ideal for digital printing.
What About Traditional Printing Methods?
There are a number of printing methods that are traditional yet still in use today. This includes 'flexo', or flexography, as well as 'offset', or offset lithography. These usually require several makeready steps so that an original image gets moved to a substrate. A series of plates getting produced are involved, mounted on a cylinder. Ink is transferred accordingly to combine with a substrate to form the desired image.
When small runs are needed, getting ready can be quite costly. Plates, labour and machine setup will all play a role. However, for long print runs, this approach is ideal.
Decorative touches that are on the more intricate end for packaging is possible through these methods. This includes, but is not limited to, inline cold foil, speciality inks and coatings.
Digital Printing Tips
Deciding to go with digital printing is the first step. Working with a printer that is a consummate professional is key. Make sure to keep these in mind:
- Make sure the workflow is simplified
- Manage expectations
- Quicker isn't always more affordable
Conclusion
Traditional printing is best for long print runs; digital is key for small to medium runs. Digital printing has plenty of benefits that give packaging innovation a boost. Advantages include implementing anti-counterfeiting, maximising variable data printing and faster turnaround.
Are you in need of printing services in Devon for packaging? Reach out to ABC Service today!
We offer a wide range of solutions such as VoIP, telecommunications, support for computers in homes and businesses, as well as graphic design and printing.