Hama, the globally oriented German accessories company, is Europe's first customer of the newly launched LED UV inkjet printing system AccurioJet KM-1e from Konica Minolta. The installation was completed during the lockdown and enables the specialist for mobile, PC and photo accessories to print in high quality on almost any substrate. The company is thus meeting the growing demands of brands and retailers for a better "product experience", which is achieved through high value-added packaging.
Konica Minolta's partnership approach and its service organisation were key factors in Hama's decision. The AccurioJet KM-1e digital LED UV inkjet sheet-fed system was installed at the company's headquarters in Monheim, Bavaria, to replace two digital machines.
A business case submitted by Konica Minolta also contributed to the decision. It demonstrated how volume can be significantly increased by identifying additional applications, such as the production of folding cartons. One example is consumer-oriented packaging, which is used for memory sticks and mobile phone cases. Some of them cost between 30 and 50 euros per item in personalised form. The previously outsourced folding carton production has thus been reinstated internally at Hama.
The investment opens up new creative opportunities for Hama, a company with sales of 550 million euros, 2,500 employees at 20 locations and 18,000 product lines, in blister and lightweight packaging for short-run special products. High-volume production of blister packaging will be a key application for the AccurioJet KM-1e.
Among the benefits of the AccurioJet KM-1e for Hama are the consistent quality and scratch resistance of the print. Substrates can range from thin 70g paper for catalogues and brochures to a thickness of up to 0.6mm used in the production of folding boxes. The system has no downtime and runs in two-shift operation.
Manuel Eder, deputy head of Hama's packaging division, explains: "As one of the world's leading distributors of accessories, we work at top speed to ensure fast deliveries and optimum stock levels. Packaging is becoming increasingly important for the consumer's "product experience". This is one of the many reasons why the AccurioJet KM-1e represents a significant step forward for our business. Digital production is now also extremely reliable. In addition, we are planning to implement new applications, such as spot and flood varnish, in partnership with Konica Minolta".
He adds: "We have greatly appreciated Konica Minolta's consultative and professional approach, as well as their service support. In addition, the joint collaboration to increase volume on the press has justified the investment even more. This is the beginning of a partnership that we know will have many benefits for both sides".
Oliver Becker, Head of Professional Printing, Direct Sales at Konica Minolta Business Solutions Deutschland GmbH, says: "The AccurioJet KM-1e will provide Hama with a wide range of business expansion opportunities to develop high value-added products. High quality and reliable production, as well as extensive media capabilities in areas such as premium product packaging, are crucial. Developing high value-added products for everyday retail items such as mobile phone cases is an interesting approach to the market".
He adds: "The successful installation by experienced teams was completed during the coronavirus lockdown. It is another example of how we provide know-how and work closely with customers".
The AccurioJet KM-1e was launched in June this year, taking over the legacy of a machine that was hailed as the first choice for B2+ digital production printing systems. Users also benefit from Konica Minolta's unique Dot Freeze Technology™. The patented process, known as DFT, has overcome one of the fundamental challenges of inkjet printing - the uncontrolled movement of ink dots, which reduces print quality and processable materials. The technology automatically freezes ink droplets upon contact with materials in a unique way, resulting in superior colour stability and outstanding results that are immediately ready for finishing.
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