Canon Canada’s

Issue Nº 4 - Fall 2017

OUTD

OOR APPLICATIONS

PROMOTION

AL ITEM

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MANUFACTURED

PR

OD

UCTS

INTE

RIO

R

DESIGN & DÉCOR DIMENSIONAL PRINTIN

G

EXHIBITS & EV

ENTS

ANYT

HIN

G Y

OU CAN IMAGINE

RETA

IL & POP

FINE ART

& P

HO

TOGRAPHY

• Océ VariaDot® technology• True flatbed architecture • Optional light cyan and light magenta inks or CM-Squared inks• Active Pixel Placement Compensation

• Pneumatic pin registration• Hands-free Automated Maintenance System • A six/seven zone vacuum system• High-flow vacuum system for effective pull-down of rigid media

• Print odd-shaped, heavy, smooth, or pre-cut media • Multi-layer & double-sided prints in perfect registration • Print large images tiled over multiple large boards with perfect geometry • Print media edge-to-edge without hassle or mess

• Add additional ink channels for more versatility at any time• Add the Roll Media Option at any time• Add the Static Suppression Option at any time

02. “Harness the Power of Digital”Industry Article

04. Retail & POP DisplaysApplication Ideas

08. SignageApplication Ideas

10. UVgel TechnologySpecial Feature

12. Textile ApplicationsApplication Ideas

14. Glass Etching TechniqueApplication Recipe

16. Packaging ApplicationsApplication Ideas

18. Packaging IndustrySpecial Feature

24. i-PackCase Study

28. Outdoor ApplicationsApplication Ideas

32. Océ Arizona Industry AwardsIndustry Article

34. Interior DécorApplication Ideas

38. Fine Art & PhotographyApplication Ideas

42. Industrial ApplicationsApplication Ideas

44. Promotional ItemsApplication Ideas

48. Metallic Effects TechniqueApplication Recipe

50. Exhibit & Event ApplicationsApplication Ideas

54. Automated Digital FinishingSpecial Feature

56. Cutting without PrintingApplication Ideas

58. Dimensional & Texture PrintsApplication Ideas

60. Stickers & LabelsApplication Ideas

64. Flatbed Buyer’s GuideSpecial Feature

66. Product CustomizationApplication Ideas

72. GIS & MapsApplication Ideas

Innovation is a key success factor in the display graphics industry. As technologies and the needs of print customers change, one thing is clear; those who diversify survive and thrive. We see innovation every day in the vast array of applications produced by our customers. Whether it’s a simple poster or an elaborate specialty application, nearly anything you or your customers can imagine can be produced on a Canon wide format printer.

We’ve put together this guide as a way to show you the potential in your business. It includes real-world applications currently being produced on Canon’s professional lines of printers and cutters, interviews with our experts, case studies from customers worldwide, and useful information needed to ensure that you are getting the most out of your investments. We hope this inspires you to find new ways for creative expression of your – and your clients’ – ideas.

The world of digital print is an exciting and dynamic place to be. Talk of a “decline in print” can be considered a thing of the past as the industry builds confidence and gathers momentum. From stunning interior

décor to the emergence of books-of-one, high quality photobooks, and the transformation of multichannel communications, digital print is reshaping the very perception of print.

While the industry has seen some consolidation and certain areas of print suffered from commoditization, it has never been more relevant. It has faced the challenges from electronic alternatives such as online media,

email marketing and e-books and kept its important place in our lives.

Print service providers (PSPs) - inspired by their passion - continue to push the boundaries, seize new opportunities and grow. In 2015, global printing output was projected to reach €870 billion and annual growth

of 2% per year is predicted through until 2020.*

One of the primary reasons for this industry-wide growth is an increase in demand for higher-value printed products. But how can ambitious PSPs unlock the potential of print?

HARNESS THE POWER OF DIGITALUNLEASH THE POTENTIAL IN YOUR BUSINESS

DIGITAL PRINTERSCapitalized on market shift to on-demand, low, and medium runs. Transitioned to offering

unique substrates and specialty applications to upsell current

customers.

SCREEN PRINTERSAdding a flatbed made hybrid

screen/digital printing possible, creating short run profitability and

workflow efficiencies.

COMMERCIAL PRINTERSExpanding into wide format utilized core business while

complementing current production capabilities.

Source: Canon Europe02 |

Source: Canon Europe

THINK DIFFERENTLYWhenever new opportunities in print are discussed, wide format is frequently mentioned. Printing for interiors and industry are both generating genuine excitement as PSPs combine developments in technology with their own ingenuity to create new opportunities. By thinking more broadly about how applications could apply to a different market, they move away from commoditized markets and offer higher value printed products. If they were already printing wall graphics, for example, recognizing the value in personalized photographic wallpaper is a logical next step.

Take business communications as another example. Successful PSPs in this arena recognize that print should complement rather than compete with other channels in

the multi-channel communications mix. It can play a unique role, helping brands to attract and retain their audiences’ attention and communicate a particular message. As part of a holistic, cross-media marketing campaign, for example, personalized direct mail can be used to drive prospects online. An online retailer, on the other hand, may use a printed, customized catalogue to communicate with customers who have not purchased from them for six months. In both cases, print’s effectiveness can be measured through the responses it drives.

Digital print is a disruptive force and has inspired whole new business models for some publishers. As book printing run lengths have fallen and the volume of available titles has grown, more publishers are switching to a sell

first, then print model. Indeed, now it is cost effective to print and finish one book at a time, opportunities are opening up to print previously out-of-print titles on demand, introduce self-publishing services or offer customized books.

BE BOLD, BRAVE & EXPERIMENTRegardless of your current market and expertise, you can unlock more value and potential in your business. Look beyond your current capabilities and product offerings and think about how you can inspire your customers. If you need to adapt or change – whether that’s exploring new applications, investing in new technologies or adapting your business model – find a partner to help.

The print industry is a place of great optimism and potential. Join us and unlock that potential.

EXHIBIT MANUFACTURERSAdding a flatbed printer allowed

for high quality printing on a wide range of rigid and flexible substrates with uncompromised

productivity.

REPROGRAPHERSSmooth transition to flatbed

printers as profitable extension to current business.

INDUSTRIALDigital printing is changing

how products are manufactured, allowing for customized looks,

frequent design changes, and rapid prototyping.

*Smithers Pira, “The Future of Global Printing to 2020”, http://www.smitherspira.com/news/2016/january/positive-outlook-for-global-print-markets | 03

RETAIL AND POINT-OF-PURCHASE DISPLAYSPOP displays draw attention to particular brands or special offers that create additional value or showcase the advantages of the product. This marketing tactic has a large impact because it is in place at the very moment that the consumer is making a buying decision. POP can be one of the most underutilized tools in retail today. The POP display will highlight the specific product or event and draw customers’ attention to it. The exact intent of any advertising! Examples of POP include end caps promoting a single product, candy and magazines placed at the checkout, posters, signs or specially created shelving, and other product displays. It can also include signage that is suggesting additional food at a restaurant, adding a warranty onto an expensive appliance purchase, and advertising events at arenas. Find out more about different POP displays and how they can help generate sales.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 04 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

FOAM FLOORINGInterlocking foam floor mats are inexpensive and quite commonly used so the potential market is quite large. Printing on them requires very little set-up or preparation time.

ANTI-FATIGUE MATSRubber anti-fatigue mats are placed in work areas where cushioning is required to relieve fatigue. They are also used for designation of work areas and activities.

DECORATIVE WOOD SIGNAGEPrint directly onto wood using UV inks to produce visually stunning signs for businesses or even home décor.

INDOOR BANNERSIndoor banners can have many different display options such as roll-up or pop-up displays,X banners, as well as simple grommet banners tied down. Indoor banners are typically printed on a sturdy media that allows the graphics to pop such as vinyl material, polypropylene, or soft banner material.

PROMOTIONS POSTERSPosters are usually large enough to be noticed from a distance and can be displayed almost anywhere. High value/low production cost posters can be printed on inexpensive media such as 24# bond as well as more durable media such as vinyl.

FLOOR GRAPHICSFloor graphics can be used as advertisement, informational, decorative, or directional signs. They are strategically placed to easily capture attention in order to communicate a brand’s message. Most are short- to-medium term lasting a minimum of six months and must meet U/L 410 standards to not pose a slipping hazard.

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RETAIL AND POINT-OF-PURCHASE DISPLAYS CONTINUED...

WINDOW DISPLAYSEasily build 3D objects that are strong, lightweight, and environmentally friendly using Re-Board. Used for product displays, seasonal decoration, and to draw foot traffic into the store.

SELF-STANDING FRAMESQuick to print and even quicker to cut, self-standing frames made out of aluminum composite are a simple and modern design that looks quite impressive.

DAY/NIGHT BACKLITSAdvances in print technology means designs aren’t constrained by being lit from the front or behind. This application can be printed on any suitable transparent substrate like polycarbonate or PETG.

RETAIL POP BACKLITSTraditionally, backlit displays have been printed on glossy films, but today’s backlits are printed on diverse materials like fabric, acrylic, and photo media.

COUNTER CARDSCounter cards can be used at information desks, waiting areas, retail counters, restaurant tables, and more. They can be printed on sturdy cardstock with a durable double wing easel or on paper, mounted then laminated.

DISPLAY STANDSInexpensive, portable, and versatile display stands are among the most cost-effective promotional items providing your customers the ability to quickly amend information and promotions.

RETAIL AND POINT-OF-PURCHASE CONTINUED...RETAIL AND POP DISPLAYS CONTINUED...RETAIL AND POP DISPLAYS CONTINUED...

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RETAIL AND POINT-OF-PURCHASE CONTINUED...

HANGING SIGNSHanging signs are made from a variety of materials for both indoor and outdoor use such as acrylic, Dibond, plastic, wood, aluminum, foam core, PVC, fabric, textile, or vinyl.

MENU BOARDSProviding exceptional colour and detail, backlit or reflective menu boards are a great way to quickly communicate what’s available to order.

SHELF TALKERSShelf talkers are the last chance to get the attention of the consumer before they make their buying decision. They are usually printed on a stiffer media to easily slide into a holder.

TENT CARDSTent cards are a simple, yet cost-effective. Printed on inexpensive paperboard, they can promote value-added items, specials, upcoming events, new products, and more.

WINDOW GRAPHICSGraphics can vary from simple paper posters to more robust solutions, like clear decals, die-cut decals, etched glass decals, one way vision, static window clings, or vinyl window decals.

A-FRAME SIGNSA-frame signs quietly, yet effectively, invite the passerby into a business by promoting special offers, business hours, events, and more.

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SIGNAGEHelp your customers make bold statements with their signage. From durable outdoor banners that can withstand the weather for several seasons to indoor promotional posters that change on a daily basis, large format printing allows you creativity and flexibility. Traffic and safety signage can be printed directly on wood or metal. Being able to customize on short-runs and endlessly tailor to your customers, means higher-margin products that can’t be found elsewhere. Explore all the signage applications you can create.

OUTDOOR BANNERSTypically very vibrant and colourful outdoor banners are viewed by people in automobiles or pedestrians. They can be printed on a variety of weather-resistant media such as Tyvek® and vinyl.

INDOOR BANNERSConvention centers, retail spaces, and sporting events are the ideal market for indoor banners. Typically they are printed on a sturdy media that allows the graphics to pop.

BRAILLEBraille signage is everywhere, partially due to legal compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which passed into law in 1990.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 08 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

ZOO SIGNAGEPrinted on DIBOND and appreciated by humans and animals alike.

OUTDOOR POSTERSOutdoor posters are viewed by people in automobiles or pedestrians and deliver exposure to residents and to commuter traffic.

INDOOR POSTERSIndoor posters are particularly effective for indoor marketing campaigns including store signage, special offers, sales, and upcoming events.

EVENT SIGNAGEThis short-term application can help you increase your bottom line. Examples of event signage are simple paper-based posters in click frames, backlit displays, roll-up banners, A-frame displays or hanging banners.

SAFETY SIGNSSafety signs reduce risk of accidents and injuries and can reduce a company’s risk of litigation. They require a high level of durability so rigid media is ideal.

YARD SIGNSTypically printed on inexpensive corrugated plastic, single- or double-sided, and easily displayed using an H-shaped piece of wire inserted into the bottom flutes and then inserted into the lawn.

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WHAT IS CANON UVgel TECHNOLOGY? UVgel technology is not a copy or evolution of existing technologies. It is an entirely NEW breakthrough, game-changing technology. When developing UVgel technology, we analyzed current market technologies: solvent, eco-solvent, latex, and UV. Each technology has its specific strengths as well as limitations. We developed this UVgel product with one thought in mind — to combine all of the strengths of each of the existing technologies and eliminate their limitations for one single solution. Because these features are at the core of UVgel, we are able to break the laws of printing physics and print at speeds never before possible.

Latex, Eco-Solvent

UVgel

Ink drops flow until driedUncontrolled dot gain & coalescence

Separate dots on media Instantly pinned

BREAKTHROUGH PRODUCTIVITY The world’s first 64” roll-to-roll with a print speed

up to 1,700ft2/hour with saleable output quality

NEVER BEFORE SEEN AUTOMATION Automatic maintenance system and heavy duty

drawer mechanism holding up to two rolls of media at one time

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BREAKTHROUGH PRODUCTIVITY 40% lower ink consumption compared to competitive technologies

WIDE APPLICATION RANGE Excellent for both indoor and outdoor applications

EDP Awards 2016/2017Roll-to-roll printer up

to 170 cm

iF Design Award 2017Large Format Printers

Red Dot AwardProduct Design 2017

SGIA Product of the YearRTR/Hybrid/Flatbed new technology or

inkset

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TEXTILE APPLICATIONSFabric based graphics are showing up everywhere. Now you can offer your customers this low-cost, lightweight, flexible, washable, easy to pack and ship alternative to rigid substrates. Additionally, fabric based graphics can be used for a wide variety of common applications such as trade show displays, hanging signs, banners, backlit graphics, or applications that are traditionally textile based, such as flags, table covers, tents and awnings, and window covers. And, with some expertise in sewing, can even be turned into apparel.

BACKLITSTextile backlits can be absolutely stunning with their strong saturated colours, deep rich blacks, and smooth skin tones. The lightweight nature of fabric allows for a much lighter-weight framing system and fabric can also take advantage of convenient SEG (silicone edge graphics) framing systems which greatly help in reducing installation costs and time compared to conventional rigid backlit systems. Create a beautiful textile backlit that can travel easily and cost-effectively.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 12 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

BANNERSTextile banners provide a great alternative to vinyl. It is lightweight and allows for lower shipping costs and lighter weight support systems, particularly with larger banners that would weigh considerably more.

BUILDING DRAPES/WRAPSTextile building drapes or wraps benefit from using the widest print width available, minimizing the number of seams. A mesh type of fabric allows some degree of outward visibility and light filtration while lowering wind resistance.

FLAGSTextile material is stretched on a wood panel and held flat using magnets on a steel plate below the wood panel.

CUSTOM AWNINGSNew awnings can bring forth new opportunities. Lightweight awnings made from a water-impervious coated fabric such as Litex, allow you to produce seasonal, cost-effective awnings. The UV-printed fabric can be finished and assembled onto framing systems.

FURNITUREInterior designers can print original artwork on upholstery fabric and create a one-of-a-kind piece. Businesses can have furniture created with their exact company colour palette or tailor-made designs.

WINDOW COVERINGSWindow shades are another way of customizing for a business or interior office décor. Print directly onto a vinyl shade that has already been purchased, or by using fabric or canvas-type material to create a custom shade.

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GLASS ETCHINGPRINTING TECHNIQUEUse the Océ Arizona printer to create a mask for etched glass applications; the ability to print directly on the glass eliminates the necessity for a pre-cut masking material, saving time and effort while accurately rendering complicated, fine details.

• Sheet glass• Glass etching cream• Tape• Océ Arizona printer with Océ IJC255 CMYK/CMYKW inks. Other inks will work as a resist, but are more difficult to remove from glass after etching

• Commercial and retail locations• Individuals• Promotional Items• Suppliers• Interior Design Firms• Artists

PREP TIME:Size dependent

PRINT TIME:Size dependent

FINISH TIME:5-15 minutes to remove etching material

PRINT PARAMETERS:• Mode: Production-Quality-Layered• Lamps: Max• Media Profile: Generic

INSTRUCTIONS1. Source glass etching compound such as, Armour Etch Glass Etching Cream. Purchase sufficient quantities to test and etch your application.

2. Prepare data. Hand application of etching creams is not ideal for etching large areas of glass, as streaking will occur. It is best to keep large coverage areas to a minimum. To do this, you will need to create a mask for the areas to remain un-etched.

3. Masking data should be a 4 color black with 400% coverage (C100/M100/Y100/K100) and the areas to be etched should be clear of any ink data.

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4. Process the file through ONYX software, ensuring that the 400% ink values of the mask are not altered by the Rip.

5. Prepare glass, cleaning well first with a glass cleaner, or acetone followed by a high purity isopropyl alcohol/ distilled water mix. Tape up the edges if full bleed is being used and ink overspray is undesirable. It is also a good idea to protect the backside of the glass from any unwanted etching cream with a masking material.

6. Bi-directional printing may be sufficient, but fine line data reproduction may benefit from uni- directional printing.

7. Remove printed piece of glass and set aside to cool. If possible, wait 24 hours before applying etching creams.

8. Using gloves and eye protection, follow manufacturer’s instructions, applying etching material thickly and smoothly to clear, un-masked areas of room temperature glass.

9. Etching compound may contain some larger crystals of chemicals which cause streaking and non- uniformity of etch. Carefully brush these crystals away from critical etching areas.

10. Leave etching cream on the glass for about 15 minutes. You can wipe off a small area and check that the desirable level of etching has occurred. If more time is necessary, simply move etching cream back onto cleared area.

11. Rinse off in cold water. A strong jet of water should take both the etching cream and the ink off of the glass. Eye protection and gloves are required. While the glass surface is still wet, use fingers or a smooth, plastic spatula to remove any ink mask remnants.

12. Allow the etched glass to dry and use as required.

TIPApply etching cream with a natural bristle brush – most synthetic materials will be damaged by etching chemicals.

Source: Océ Display Graphics Systems (ODGS) | 15

PACKAGING APPLICATIONSAs markets become more localized, the demand for short-run packaging has increased. With innovative Océ large format printing solutions, you can produce sample packages enabling creative professionals to work efficiently to refine their designs. Océ printing solutions enable you to target short-run, niche packaging to local retailers or specialty product manufacturers and enables you to go after new markets and grow your revenue. Did you know that packaging is increasingly segmented by geography, niche, and even language? Providing this in-house printing service allows you to produce smaller runs more cost-effectively and even experiment with personalized versions for your clients. These custom packaging applications can be produced and finished using Océ’s unified print-and-cut workflow solutions to maximize short-run production efficiencies. Explore all the business opportunities that packaging applications can offer.

ADVERTISING SPECIALTYAdvertising specialty applications are ideal in providing a coordinated and professional look for your customers’ products or brands. Now you can offer your customers high-quality print products on promotional items like yoyos, thumb drives, custom boxes, signage to floor graphics.With Océ large format printers, you can produce a wide variety of promotional products that can be customized helping your customer build their brand. Did you know that you can produce large customized pieces like doors, tabletops, wall panels, and more? And still have the ability to print smaller pieces from hockey pucks to plaques, to nameplates, or even dimensional printing of textures including braille.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 16 |

CORRUGATEDRetailers and brand owners are demanding more graphically rich packaging to keep their products looking fresh. Their demand also includes the need for great looking POP displays as well. What this means for you is that run lengths for these applications, such as corrugated POP displays and retail-ready packaging, have shortened while the frequency for producing updated products has increased. This is a great opportunity for your business. With Océ large format printers you can efficiently take on these jobs and meet the quick turn-around demands to stay competitive. We will provide you with the right tools and knowledge to target this high-margin market.

RETAIL HIGH-ENDBrand owners, retailers, and marketing executives value custom, unique packaging solutions that deliver memorable responses. Retail packaging printing services offering customized solutions based on geography, shipping efficiency, and storage requirements can drive profitability for your business. High-end packaging leads to stronger brand recognition for your customers. The innovative printing solutions provided by Océ provide you with the right tools to target this high-margin market. We can teach you how to create pop-up constructions, pull tabs, print-on, or emulate unique types of luxe materials such as plush suedes, smooth Tyvek® prints, and box toppers, all of which can deliver that unique interactive product for your customers’ consumer.

SHORT RUNOne of the fastest growing segments is custom and short-run packaging. Driving this growth are the brand owners. Brand owners and retailers are constantly fine-tuning their marketing and product messaging. Creating custom and short-run packaging is now practical as well as profitable, a direct result of Océ innovative printers along with our digital cutting solutions. Since there is virtually no setup required, compared to offset, you can produce cost-effective, limited runs of custom packaging supporting memorable events such as weddings and award ceremonies. You can also offer short-run packaging to meet the demands of private labels, test markets, sporting events, and more. Personalization is easy providing your business the ability to support variable data on a box-by-box basis.

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Packaging today is so much more powerful and valuable than a mere receptacle. It is a shortcut to consumer decision-making and a communicator of a brand’s overall message. Because the demand for, and the rise of bespoke, innovative, engaging, beautifully designed or environmentally friendly packaging has become a mainstay of our day-to-day lives, packages have become a legitimate part of the customer experience themselves. The total digital package and label printing market is forecast to grow at a rate of 20% every year until 20241. It’s an industry on the rise; both in terms of size and prominence.

For brands and retailers today, the proliferation of media channels, changing demographics and multichannel shopping has made it harder to grab people’s attention and predict their purchasing behaviour. While marketers are adapting to an increasingly fragmented audience through the use of digital campaigns to identify and target customers, this also has implications for the packaging industry.

40% of global print production is accounted

for by packaging and labels

By 2024, the total digital printing market

will be 225% of its size in 2013

Label printing is set to grow at 4.7% between

2014-20181

Source: Canon Europe “Think Packaging”, Autumn 2015 Source: Canon Europe “Think Packaging”1 Smithers Pira, The Future of Global Printing 2018; December 2013

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A well-designed or innovative packaging solution is an increasingly important differentiator for brands and one which can have a disproportionately positive effect in driving sales. Advances in digital and smartphone technologies have significantly transformed consumer behaviour and their expectations. Product packaging is at the centre of these developments in the consumer retail experience and it should come as no surprise that the packaging market is growing strongly. The luxury market alone for example, is expanding by 4.4% per annum and the packaging printing market by almost the same amount over the period 2014-20181.

Since the birth of barcodes, digital technologies have continually been tested to bring reforms to retail experience. The rise of the Internet of Things (network connectivity of everyday objects) and advances in mobile computing, RFID, augmented reality and biosensors have not only shaken up the retail landscape – they’ve increased the scope of packaging from something to simply protect a product to something to genuinely connect with consumers. In addition, the latest innovations in digital printing have opened up possibilities in the production process that never previously existed.

Integrated into the production process, these new technologies allow for truly customized print and frequent design changes whilst cutting down the time from design to production. Many printing procedures are now suitable for both small and large quantities, enabling manufacturers to respond quickly

to changing markets or customer demands. With so many powerful opportunities, digital print is creating new values and growth within a wide range of industries, with minimized risk and cost. For retailers, brand owners and marketers, this should come as no surprise.

CONSUMER PERSPECTIVEThe global population is ageing and the number of single person households is growing dramatically. The rise of the ‘senior’ generation (defined as 60+ by the UN) is outstripping overall population growth3 and this trend looks set to continue for at least the next 25 years. By 2050, two billion people will be aged 60 and older. The implications for packaging and product design are immense. How will brand owners address this? Larger print and easy-to-open packaging are two considerations that spring to mind.

In parallel, single person households are already the most common household profile in Western Europe4 and North America. While couples with children prevail in emerging markets, single person households will increase here too in line with shifting cultural attitudes and rising female employment. Euromonitor predicts that this trend will equate to

By 2050 two billion people will be aged

60 and over2

more demand for smaller household products and services aimed at the solo consumer4.

Customized packagingAs customers and their needs grow increasingly diverse, customizing packaging has become a sure-fire way to gain traction. Mass customization is an attempt to deliver this heightened consumer experience without adding cost and complexity to operations. For retailers managing different markets for global brands in particular, it is both a useful and cost-effective strategy. Every retailer knows that successful packaging depends on the consumer. Packaging loved by customers in Germany may be interpreted differently in France. Green packaging may suggest ‘eco-friendly’ or ‘healthy’ in the UK, but it is unacceptable in Egypt due to religious reasons. Now that print runs can be as short as a single product, customization can even trickle down to individual users. A recent campaign for Heinz Tomato Soup, for example, allowed consumers to personalize a can on the brand’s Facebook page and send it to a friend as a gift. Similar campaigns from other FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) brands such as HP Sauce and Coca-Cola, as well as luxury brands, such as American Express, are ushering in an era of design where big brands aim to engage their customers with packaging specifically designed to appeal on a personal level. As digital printing technology becomes more affordable and wide-spread, short print runs will continue to increase and personalization will be one of the main tools brands use to differentiate and attract customers.

Source: Canon Europe “Think Packaging”1 Smithers Pira, The Future of Global Printing 2018; December 2013

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Convenience packagingIt is not enough for brand owners to meet consumers’ existing needs. They should be anticipating their desires and providing them with a product that goes beyond what’s already on the market. One area that’s ripe for packaging innovation is convenience packaging, targeting increasingly on-the–go, time-poor consumers. Unit-dose packs for example, have achieved wide acceptance in some categories such as laundry detergents. Other examples of new convenience packaging include Robinsons Squash’d, a plastic squeezable pouch designed to dispense fruit cordial into water bottles on the go.

Smart packagingInnovations over the last 20 years have been able to take packaging’s interactions with consumers one step further. A recent example of technology shaping packaging is Heineken and Strongbow’s interactive bottle features. Heineken’s ‘Ignite’ bottle used micro sensors and wireless networking technology to sense when people clinked the bottles

together. These motions triggered certain effects that would light up the whole bottle and when left idle, fade away.

Eco-friendly packagingPackaging can also boost the environmental credentials of brands. British start-up Graze developed eco-friendly packaging made of corrugated cardboard which was biodegradable and could be turned into sustainable punnets for growing plants and herbs5. Subsequent research into new materials and optimal and sustainable solutions is a continuing trend with eco-friendly packaging playing a significant role in affecting consumer choices. Some 52% of global respondents in a recent Nielsen survey6 said their purchase choices are partly dependent on the packaging. They check the labelling before buying to ensure the brand is committed to positive social and environmental impact.

THE PACKAGING OPPORTUNITY FOR PRINTERSResearch7 into what the drivers towards digital printing are for packaging companies identified cost savings as the main factor – 49% are interested in reducing the cost of short runs, 37% want to be quicker

TETRA PACK FRANCE, a leading food processing and packaging solutions company created an app in 2014 aimed at getting consumers to recycle more. The packaging brand is one of the

few to step out of the B2B sector to communicate directly with

consumers. Predominantly aimed at children, the mobile app

illustrated the benefits of recycling through a variety of augmented

reality games.

to market and 29% wish to reduce packaging inventory. Only 25% aren’t looking into digital printing at all.

Printed packaging companies need to deliver more packaging variations than ever before to meet the wants and needs of retailers that are simultaneously shaping and responding to consumer demands and expectations. Brands need to provide new shapes, new materials, more colour, more distinctive and shorter-runs to differentiate from the competition and attract consumers. All of which needs the right technologies. Digital print is the answer to changes in supply chains and consumer behaviour. With digital package printing, brand owners can enhance the value they offer and their role in the process.

The opportunities for printing professionals are immense. Analogue packaging is predicted to grow by 28% in the 2008-2018 period while all digitally produced material will increase by 375% for the same period to reach $9.4bn (€8.5bn) by 2018, according to a report by Smithers Pira1.

Packaging on demandOne of the biggest changes to the

ACCORDING TO A SMITHERS PIRA REPORT1 ON PACKAGING,

25% of men and 35% of women said their buying choices were influenced by how recyclable the packaging was.

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publishing industry was the advent of print-on-demand which allowed books to be printed singly or in small quantities. While build-to-order has been an established business model in many other industries, print-on-demand developed only after digital printing because it was not economical to print single copies using traditional printing technology.

Print-on-demand scenarios have enormous potential to reduce costs and are particularly well suited for market-specific products in small batches. As a result, it seems certain that packaging will follow the same route with the same opportunities for printers and print service providers.

Early digital printers were all developed largely for pages, making them realistically too small to work for packaging or indeed anything bigger than A3. However, recent developments in wide-format print have the power to slowly change this. German company puzzle & play GmbH creates personalized puzzles in personalized packages for thousands of customers from its offices in Bavaria, Germany.

The chosen puzzle motifs are printed on 1.9 mm puzzle cardboard with the latest digital printing technology, and punched and packed in a secure plastic foil before being placed in an individually designed box printed with the customer’s puzzle motif. The jigsaw puzzles can range from 100-1,000 pieces and turnaround is under two weeks.

What seems certain is that digital, print-on-demand, label and package printing is meeting current lean

manufacturing initiatives as well as creating opportunities for increasing customization and targeted marketing. This sort of capability gives brand managers a powerful tool for attracting new customers.

CONCLUSIONPrinting on demand means less waste, ensuring that new designs or changes don’t result in redundant stock. One-off customization becomes just as possible as

traditional long production runs. Technological developments in inkjet and electrophotography are making digital print increasingly accessible and cost-effective for all kinds of companies, big and small. In short, digital is enabling businesses to work in totally new ways.

Despite all of the advantages on offer, there has historically been reluctance in the industry to adopt digital printing processes on a large scale. A general lack of knowledge in the sector coupled with a perception that the process is expensive and difficult to manage has meant digital printing has evolved slowly in the past. However, more companies need to consider digital print to avoid being left behind in this fast-moving market. With three quarters of the print industry7 researching digital print packaging options, opting out seems like a risky option.

For printing professionals looking to make the move to digital printed packaging, the first step is to figure out what the benefits of digital printed packaging are, acquainting yourself with how others are using it innovatively. Before you can communicate its benefits to your customer base, it’s essential you yourself are convinced of its merits and potential to add value. The next step is to discuss the opportunities of digital printing with your client base. Understanding their customers and what’s important to them: the joy of unboxing, transparency, authenticity, green issues and balancing this with what their brand stands for will go some way to making a convincing case for the value of digital print.

Makes short-run and customized packaging

economical – ensuring that new designs or changes don’t result in redundant

stock

Creates opportunities for working differently

Gets products to market faster

Helps to streamline supply chains

Enables customization

Generates less waste – printing on demand, to order, means the end of

long print runs and unused packaging. The green

and cost implications are compelling

| 21

DO YOUR RESEARCHThe beauty of packaging is that it is everywhere! PSPs should go out and see how packaging is being used by businesses in multiple sectors and of multiple sizes.

How does it differ by product volume? What materials are being used? Is it functional, decorative or both?

How is it working with other POS products that could also be an opportunity for print?

LOOK AT YOUR CURRENT CAPABILITIESPSPs should ask themselves which of their current services could be utilised in the packaging sector and what new areas or concepts they’re able to deliver within the capabilities of their business.

Can key trends such as prototyping, customization and the social ‘unboxing’ experience be taken advantage of?

Which of your customers already has a requirement for packaging that you can leverage?

With your knowledge and Canon’s support, how can you show them the new possibilities?

Footnotes:1 Smithers Pira, The Future of Global Printing 2018; December 2013 ,2 UN.org, World Population Ageing, 1950-2050, 2000

3 World Health Organization, Ageing and Life Course, June 2015, 4 Euromonitor International, The Rising Importance of Single Person Households Globally, 20145 Graze.com, https://www.graze.com/uk/about/packaging, 6 Nielsen Global, Nielsen Global Corporate Social Responsibility Report, June 2014

7 Packaging World Magazine and Cal Poly, Emerging Technologies for Packaging Innovation, 201422 |

IMPLEMENT SHORT TERM CHANGEPackaging is a technically demanding, knowledge hungry application but the rewards are there for those that invest the time.

How can your skills and the skills you can acquire, service the packaging supply chains at any level?

Do you have in-house skills that could be re-purposed or built on to deliver value in this sector?

Are there new applications that you would like to offer?

GETTING STARTEDKnowledge is key – if you recognise areas where additional expertise would be useful, an investment in training or applications development, however modest, could pay large dividends. PSPs need to start small and see what offers they can make to support existing customers or businesses. The learning experience could be key to developing further in these markets.

Take the proactive approach – What showcase materials or samples do you need in your portfolio to highlight what you can do for retail?

Consider working with other suppliers or customers in your network who already service packaging markets.

Get creative – Can you find an innovative niche that sits perfectly within your businesses capabilities and services the needs of your customers?

Find the right print partner – Our product specialists, application experts and account managers are here to help. They represent one of the largest wide format portfolios in the industry and can help you learn the skills needed to push the boundaries of packaging.

| 23

COMPANY NAMEi-Pack

INDUSTRYPackaging/Printing

FOUNDED1997

LOCATIONSarpsborg, Norway

SERVICESDigital wide format printing, packaging, POS, display graphics, commercial print, design and composition, finishing, product assembly

WEBSITEhttp://i-pack.no/

OBJECTIVEExpand business to become leader in POS solutions.

APPROACH• Canon analysed business strategy and best solution

to enable customer to add printing to service offering

• Canon and Océ Arizona technology was recommended by new business partner for new digital division

• Canon invited company to pre-launch of the Océ Arizona 6000 series in Vancouver

• Demonstration of productivity and versatility across wide range of media for short-run packaging, display and commercial applications

• Canon supported installation and integration with existing finishing line

• Provided business support to help transition into in-house printing for end-to-end production

THE CANON SOLUTION Océ Arizona 6170 XTS and Onyx Thrive

Source: Canon Europe24 |

Source: Canon Europe

THE CHALLENGEi-Pack – based in Sarpsborg, Norway – has always excelled at creating display graphics and packaging solutions for the Point-of-Sale (POS) market. Operating under different names and owners since its founding in 1997, the company has worked with a number of leading packaging companies in Scandinavia and other European markets.

By 2013, however, its founder – Atle Andreassen – felt the company was not fulfilling its potential. “We had lost our identity,” comments Andreassen. Functioning as more of a local sales organisation for its parent company, Andreassen led a successful buyout to bring the business back to its roots. Rebranded as i-Pack AS, the specialist’s new strategy was to revert back to supplying, and, more importantly, producing high quality POS materials and special packaging. The long-term goal was to be the best in its field.

A key part of this new business strategy was winning business in the short-run promotional graphics and packaging market. However, as Andreassen explains, the company did not possess the capability to print in-house: “Financial restrictions and a lack of vision by our previous owners hindered investment in our own printing technology. We had always outsourced our printing to production sites in Sweden and Denmark.”

This was an inadequate process. Not only slow and onerous, the costs involved in ordering and shipping

printed sheets from a third party were expensive too. “The process also undermined our control over the quality of the end product,” comments Andreassen. “There was no way to guarantee that the customer’s approved PDF file would look the same once it was printed externally.”

In addition, i-Pack’s core customers – fast-moving, brand-conscious marketers – like to see samples to inspect their product first hand. “Our customers like to take samples to internal meetings so they can visualise how the final display would look in-store. We lacked the prototyping capability to do

that,” comments Andreassen. With customer demand for faster job turnaround and more flexibility from their suppliers to facilitate reactive marketing campaigns, i-Pack knew it was time to invest in digital printing technology and offer end-to-end production.

“Sometimes you get a request on a Friday for a short-run POS campaign that goes live on the Monday,” elaborates Andreassen. “The old process of outsourcing the work to be offset or screen printed was neither fast enough nor a financially viable option. We required a way to produce samples and judge the quality in-house, rather than order 200 from a third party printer only to find that it is not to the standard we, or the customer, expected.”

THE SOLUTIONSoon after the buy-out, i-Pack worked with a local print service provider (PSP) to set up a new division, i-Pack Digital. This arm would be a production site that combined i-Pack’s expertise in packaging design with the PSP’s understanding of the print market.

| 25

By 2014, i-Pack recognised the division required a partner to support its transition and propel its strategy forward. The owner of i-Pack’s PSP partner, Jan Tore Hall, was very forthcoming in his praise about his experience with Canon and its Arizona technology.

“Jan spoke very highly of working with Canon and the performance of its technology,” recalls Andreassen. “Both of these were important factors. This was our first big investment in digital printing technology, so we had to consider all the variables. Would it provide

a return on investment (ROI), would it suit our business needs and integrate with our existing finishing line, would the supplier understand our business vision to become the leading supplier of POS materials nationwide and beyond?”

Based on Hall’s recommendation, i-Pack approached Canon. After analysing the specialist’s business

plan, the company was invited to Vancouver for the exclusive pre-launch of Canon’s new high productivity Océ Arizona UV flatbed series. “In Vancouver, they explained the economics of printing in-house and were quick to dispel our concerns about future potential ‘hidden’ costs via maintenance and servicing issues that could undermine our profitability,” explains Andreassen.”

The company also knew that the Océ Arizona was the right technology to enable it to produce short runs of quality

and eye-catching POS work to grow its business. “We would have the capability to bridge the gap in our production line and make us very competitive,” adds Andreassen.

THE RESULTSi-Pack’s in-house printing service has cut 50% of its outsourcing costs and reclaimed complete control of its

short-run production, while laying the foundations for rapid business expansion.

Capable of swiftly responding to on demand customer orders – turnaround time has been cut by 30% on some orders – the company has increased monthly volumes by over 300%, from an average 4,000m2 to 12,000m2 per month.

“Vast quantities of output, around 40%, is going through the Océ Arizona and, on average, we’re running it for 15 hours a day non-stop,” comments Andreassen. “We

We printed more output in the first three months of the machine being installed than we did during the whole of

2014 combined!

“Our business can now produce eyecatching POS and packaging

solutions from concept to execution that capture the imaginations of our customers, and that we can

charge a premium for. All of this has been galvanised by our investment

in Canon and the Océ Arizona technology.”

26 |

printed more output in the first three months of the machine being installed than we did during the whole of 2014 combined! We have experienced minimal teething problems and the technology runs very smoothly.”

The company is also being more economical with its substrates. Depending on the size of the application, the Océ Arizona is capable of printing multiple orders from just one unit of media. “We can also produce a whole display application, often comprising many parts, in one pass. This makes us very efficient and ensures the end product is visually consistent from every angle.”

Significantly, the impact of the investment in Canon has accelerated i-Pack’s long-term strategy to

be a leader in the field, with the evolution of four distinctive business divisions. Joining ‘i-Pack’ and ‘i-Pack Digital’ is ‘i-Pack Design & Communication’ and ‘i-Pack Plast’. The former operates as a

small advertising agency that works with customers to create original campaigns, while i-Pack Plast cuts and prepares materials such as wood,

Enhanced delivery time for Just-In-Time proposition – from three weeks to one week for some applications

Increased monthly volumes by 300%

Aiming to grow volumes by 25% by end of 2015 and an additional 15% by 2016

Underpinned the establishment of newly developed i-Pack Digital division and further expansion with i-Pack Plast for wood, plastic and steel applications, and i-Pack Design & Communication for original campaign design

“We’re aiming to grow volumes by 25% by end of 2015, and by additional 15% by 2016. Thanks to Canon’s support and

technology, we’re well on our way to achieving our

business objectives”

plastic and steel for a broader range of innovative applications that can be printed on via the Océ Arizona technology. All of these divisions serve their own core customer bases, but also integrate for end-to-end production of POS promotional campaigns.

“Our business can now produce eye-catching POS and packaging solutions from concept to execution that capture the imaginations of our customers, and that we can charge a premium for,” concludes Andreassen. “All of this has been galvanised by our investment in Canon and the Océ Arizona technology. On back of this investment, we’re aiming to grow volumes by 25% by end of 2015, and by additional 15% by 2016. Thanks to Canon’s support and technology, we’re well on our way to achieving our business objectives.”

| 27

OUTDOOR APPLICATIONSThe elements are unpredictable and graphics specifically designed for the outdoors need to be durable and fade resistant. All Océ Arizona large format printers with UV-curable ink offer outdoor durability of up to two years and will help keep your digital backlit displays, outdoor signs, banners and other outdoor displays looking great today, tomorrow and next year.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 28 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

A-FRAME SIGNSPopular on sidewalks the world over, A-frame signs quietly, yet effectively, invite the passerby into a business by promoting special offers, business hours, events, and more. From ordinary to ornate, full-colour digital printing can be used for the entire sign. A-frame applications are ideal as a decorative element surrounding a space for hand written messages on a blackboard or dry erase surface.

OUTDOOR BANNERSOutdoor banners are located mainly in commercial and industrial areas

on major local roads. Whether they are displayed at a bus stop, local nightclub, or outdoor shopping center, outdoor banners are a fantastic

way for you to attract new business. Outdoor posters are considered short term and can be used for sale items, promotional events,

advertisements for local events, and many more. Outdoor banners can be printed on a variety of weather-resistant media such as Tyvek® and vinyl

but can also be laminated to increase the longevity of the banner.

MAGNETIC CAR DOORSInstantly, easily and temporarily update any ride without the

hassle of installing vinyl wraps or the annoying residue of some adhesives. Print directly onto durable magnets and cut into and

shape using the Océ ProCut.

OUTDOOR POSTERSOutdoor posters are located mainly in commercial and industrial areas. They are viewed principally by people in automobiles or pedestrians and deliver exposure to residents and to commuter traffic. Outdoor posters are considered short-term solutions that can be used to display products, promote events, and other messaging for your customers. Outdoor posters can be printed on a variety of weather-resistant media such as Tyvek® and vinyl but can also be laminated to increase the longevity of the poster.

| 29

OUTDOOR APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...

FLAGSTextile material is stretched on a wood panel and held flat using magnets

on a steel plate below the wood panel.

BUS BENCHESPrint on laminate-covered wood and attached to metal bench frames.

BUILDING SIGNAGEReflective during the day; backlit at night. Print as a three-layer job: a white ink layer between two CMYK ink layers.

TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION FENCING/HOARDINGSThe wall pictured here is 2.4km (1.5 miles) long and was printed on Skybond (composite aluminum) panels. For a more direct approach, print construction site hoardings directly onto rigid sheets and eliminate the extra finishing steps.

OUTDOOR APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...OUTDOOR APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...OUTDOOR APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...

30 |

RIGID OUTDOOR BACKLITSThis application is ideal for customers looking for a solution that will deliver their brand messaging in good or adverse weather conditions. These signs are used to communicate your customers’ brand day or at night. Rigid outdoor applications often use LED lights to enhance and draw attention to the creative. From advertising, mall displays or mobile backlit advertising this application is a dynamic way to display graphic promotions, images, and designs in retail areas, sports arenas, public venues, and commuter locations. These backlit signs use custom light box displays to illuminate material from behind and bring out the rich vibrant colours, especially in poor lighting conditions.

EXTERIOR LIGHT BOXExterior light boxes are commonly seen in transit shelters, as drive-

through signs, and on building exteriors. They can be backlit only or produced as a day/night backlit to properly communicate their

message regardless of the lighting conditions. Due to the increased exposure to UV light with this application, fade resistance is a key

requirement with printed graphics. The UVcurable inks used in the Océ Arizona series utilize automotive grade pigments making them

very well suited for this application.

BUILDING WRAPSOften used on buildings under construction to hide the unsightly view from the street, building drapes or wraps also serve as advertising. In many cases, they advertise the stores, offices, or apartments that will eventually be commercially available. They may also be advertising a new product or other promotion. Hard to miss due to their size, textile building drapes or wraps benefit from using the widest print width available which minimizes the number of seams. A mesh type of fabric also allows some degree of outward visibility and light filtration while lowering wind resistance.

| 31

Since it launched in 2007, the multi-award winning Océ Arizona Series has driven the wide format digital revolution, uncovering creative opportunities for signage and graphics businesses of all sizes. With over a decade of continuous innovation in the Océ Arizona Series, Canon has enabled thousands of customers worldwide to expand their graphics capabilities, extend their production scope to meet evolving customer needs and truly transform their business.

UV Flatbed White InkOCÉ ARIZONA 550 XT

October 2010

OCÉ ARIZONA 360 XTOctober 2011

OCÉ ARIZONA 480 GTOctober 2012

Flatbed <$200K MSRPOCÉ ARIZONA 640 GT

October 2013

Flatbed <$200K MSRPOCÉ ARIZONA 640 XT

October 2013

Flatbed +White Ink>$200KOCÉ ARIZONA 660 XT

October 2013

OCÉ ARIZONA 250 GTSeptember 2007

Honorable MentionOCÉ ARIZONA 350 GT

October 2008

OCÉ ARIZONA 350 GTOctober 2009

OCÉ ARIZONA 350 XTOctober 2009

OCÉ ARIZONA 550 GTOctober 2010

UV FlatbedOCÉ ARIZONA 550 XT

October 2010

Flatbed +White Ink>$200KOCÉ ARIZONA 6170 XTS

October 2014

UV Flatbed +White <$200KOCÉ ARIZONA 318 GL

October 2014

UV Flatbed <$200KOCÉ ARIZONA 318 GL

October 2014

Flatbed +White $100-200KOCÉ ARIZONA 1280 GT

October 2016

Flatbed +White $200-500KOCÉ ARIZONA 2280 XT

October 2016

32 |

Best wide format hybrid / flatbed UV printerCanon Océ Arizona 6100-Series

BERTL 4.5 STARMar. 2009

BERTL’S BESTJan. 2010

DIGITAL OUTPUT TOP 50

2007-2013

DPI VISION AWARDSept. 2006

GOLD MEDAL OF POZNAN

2008 & 2009

LENSTAR LENTICULARMay 2012

MUST SEE ‘EMS2013 & 2014

PIXEL BEST2009 & 2010

PRINT21 HOT PICK2009 & 2013

PRINTING NEWS TOP PRODUCTS

Sept. 2016

REMADAYS2012 & 2013

VISCOM INNOVATION

Sept. 2007

WIDE-FORMAT IMAGING

2009 & 2010

WORTH-A-LOOK!2008 - 2010

EUROPEAN DIGITAL PRESS

May 2015

| 33

INTERIOR DÉCOROne of the largest growing markets in digital printing is interior décor. Wall coverings, wall murals, backlits, curtains or flooring can all be personalized for the environment. You can completely transform a space for your customers with many options to choose from. How long do they want it to last? How often do they want to change the message? What kind of surface are they applying it to? Do they want to install it themselves? Whether you’re using an inkjet printer or large three-meter machine, you have options for the interior décor market. Media ranges from simple pre-pasted wall covering or repositionable fabric to fabric for curtains or furniture. Wall coverings can be durable vinyl material, or they can be more environmentally-friendly, latex-saturated paper with pre-pasted backing that can be easily installed and easily removed. Wall murals with a full ten to twelve feet of image can be made to enhance a board room or an interior entry way of a business. Now you can offer options for walls, flooring, curtains, furniture, backlit display, and windows. See how offering interior décor options can enhance your business.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 34 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

WALL COVERINGSDepending on the ink platform, digital printing allows you to create short and long term wall coverings. Take a photographic image and create mural art or create your own custom pattern. There are many choices when it comes to substrates. Final location can help you determine the best media to use. Embossed wall vinyl will give you a durable surface and can be installed with wallpaper paste or adhesive already applied to the back. Wall vinyl has a smooth, satin finish with an adhesive on the back that is installed on indoor walls and provides a different look than embossed vinyl. With all of these choices, interior designers can create a product that will perfectly complement their vision for a space.

WINDOW COVERINGSWindow space has become prime real estate for messaging and

awareness. Digital printing offers many options for window coverings; from fabric for curtains to printing directly on vinyl window shades.

There are many new materials available to fit the message and window space. By using fabric you can create curtains to customize a room or have it match the wall covering (also digitally printed). Many

fabrics for printing are made of 100% polyester so they drape well and allow for great bold images. Window shades are another way

of customizing for a business or interior office décor. You can print directly onto a vinyl shade that has already been purchased, or by

using fabric/canvas type material to create a custom shade.

TILES & WALL PANELSWith the ability to print textures like wood grain, stone, or even snakeskin directly onto decorative tiles or larger wall panels, interior décor options are nearly limitless. Digital printing allows for complete control of colour and design while textured panels are often less expensive, lighter, and easier to work with than other materials. Popular “standoff” style displays allow for dimensional printing of a design or photograph. Dimensional printing allows you to take an image or design and build up ink through a special process which can create a “stained glass” look or create a raised pattern on an image. Regular ceiling tiles can be directly printed on with a large ceiling mural or a special pattern depending on what you or your customers create.

| 35

INTERIOR DÉCOR APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...

WINDOW BLINDSSurprisingly easy to produce, customizable window blinds have many

potential client opportunities.

CEILING TILESCommon ceiling tiles used in almost every commercial and office space

can easily be replaced with ones printed on the Océ Arizona printer. Setup and preparation time is minimal, yet the result is quite appealing

and the potential market huge.

GLASS PRINTINGDecorative glass applications, such as decorated mirrors, glass signs, photos on glass and other creative glass decorations for interior use are all high value applications within reach.

LAMP SHADESMany shades are able to lay flat allowing you to print a design directly onto them. You can print a wide range of graphics such as company logos, pictures, or designs.

INTERIOR DÉCOR CONTINUED...INTERIOR DÉCOR CONTINUED...INTERIOR DÉCOR CONTINUED...

36 |

INTERIOR DÉCOR CONTINUED...

FLOORINGCustom laminate flooring is another possibility with the Océ Arizona flatbed printer. In place of the printed paper wood grain image that is normally applied to the high density fiberboard during manufacturing, an Océ Arizona printer can instead print directly onto primed fiberboard that can then be finished with a conventional surface coating.

CANVAS WRAPSTaking a fantastic photograph and putting in on canvas can be a great

way to create home décor. Whether you are re-decorating a home, an office, hotel or restaurant the “canvas” look, without actually using

canvas, is becoming a new market. They have used canvas look paper and applied it to rigid board. Now you can print your images, and

by using software and a cutting system, create a canvas wrap décor piece. Or, in a traditional manor, you can print on many different

canvas blend products and create real “canvas” wraps with a box framing system.

STAINED GLASSA true stained glass piece is a work of art, one that takes many hours to produce. Patterns can be purchased or produced and with some skill using image editing software, pieces can be re-produced including 3-D ink loading on the Océ Arizona printer much quicker, with high quality results.

| 37

FINE ART AND PHOTOGRAPHYArtists generally use inkjet to make reproductions of their artwork or photographs. Offering fine art applications opens your doors to this audience as you can help them have better control in the reproduction of their images, including the final colour correction and the substrates being used. A wide variety of substrates are available, including various textures and finishes such as matte photo paper, watercolour paper, cotton canvas, or artist-textured vinyl. Fine art printing encompasses giclée, high-end photography, museum displays, original art, and more. Giclée is a precise, high-quality replication of paintings and other fine art originals made on inkjet printers and used by artists, galleries, and print shops. These reproductions require exceptional colour accuracy and image resolution. Fine art photography usually encompasses high-end portrait-quality prints or photo enlargements made by professional photographers. Print quality and colour management are key to retain image sharpness, colour, clarity, and expression. Museums tend to use ultra-high-quality prints with durable pigment inks. They are often in need of lobby art, atrium banners, exhibit graphics, indoor murals, and more. Find out more about the business opportunities of offering fine art applications.

CANVAS-STRETCHEDA canvas print is the result of an image printed directly onto canvas

material then stretched onto a frame for display. Canvas prints are often used in interior design with reproduction paintings or photographs and

are intended to replicate original oil or acrylic paintings on stretched canvas. These prints are typically printed on cotton canvas materials, but they can also be printed on textile or even photo paper laminated with a

canvas texture laminate.

PHOTOGRAPHICFine art photography is typically high-end portrait prints or photo enlargements made by professional photographers. Print quality and colour management are key requirements in order to retain image sharpness, colour, clarity, and expression. These pieces are typically printed on premium photo paper in the highest quality mode. Fine art photography can be found in art galleries, used in interior décor, created for special occasions like birth or family portraits or events like weddings, and any promotions where high-end photos of objects or models are required.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 38 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

PHOTO ALBUMSEmbellish simple photo albums with graphics and full colour elements in a highly customizable way offered by few service providers.

SELF-FRAMING ARTThis snap-together piece looks as good as traditional custom-stretched canvas but is quite straightforward, inexpensive, and quick to produce.

PHOTO FRAMING GLASSCustom framing is a service where customers expect to pay a premium. Having the unique ability to print on and personalize the glass as well as providing the print adds competitive value to the service.

PHOTO FRAMING MATSHaving the capability to print on, personalize and cut framing mats, adds extra value to this service.

GLASS ETCHINGUse the Océ Arizona printer to create a mask for etched glass applications; the ability to print directly on the glass eliminates the necessity for a pre-cut masking material, saving time and effort while accurately rendering complicated, fine details.

PHOTOBOOTH BACKDROPPhotobooths are growing in popularity and can be found at private events such as weddings and birthdays or larger corporate events and entertainment venues.

| 39

The Canadian print industry is changing. It’s no longer about compromise but about saying ‘yes’ to your customers. It’s about adapting and seizing new opportunities. Canon will work with you to overcome challenges, exceed your customer expectations, and explore bold new ideas and cutting-edge techniques. Plus, with the widest print portfolio in the industry and unique heritage in imaging technology, we’re able to push boundaries, offer pioneering solutions and challenge the pre-conceptions of print to help your business stay ahead of the curve – and the competition.

• A wide range of production models with print speeds up to 1,668 ft2/hour• Product scalability with post installation upgrade options for white or varnish ink • Fast Automated Print Head Maintenance System enables colour independent, hands-free cleaning• Pneumatic registration pins enable double-sided prints in perfect alignment

Océ Arizona® Series• World’s fastest 64” roll-to-roll printer with UVgel technology • Breakthrough productivity• Never seen before print automation• Wide and unique application range• Up to 40% reduction in ink/printing costs compared to other competitive technologies• A wide colour gamut, comparable to that of EcoSolvent inkjet printers

Océ colorado® 1640• Up to 1,389 ft2/hour• 11" to 42' media roll width• Up to 6 rolls = 13,650 ft2 of media online• Océ MediaSense technology enables printing on media up to 32mil thick• Multiple finishing options including stacking and folding• All-in-one productive print, scan, and copy system

Océ colorwave® 700• 42" wide print path• Print speed up to 12"/second • 30,000 ft2 of production per shift• 6 auto switching rolls• Efficient 1.4 picoliter inkjet technology• Robust finishing options such as rewind unit and folder• Dry and immediately stackable prints

Océ colorwave® 910

40 |

The Canadian print industry is changing. It’s no longer about compromise but about saying ‘yes’ to your customers. It’s about adapting and seizing new opportunities. Canon will work with you to overcome challenges, exceed your customer expectations, and explore bold new ideas and cutting-edge techniques. Plus, with the widest print portfolio in the industry and unique heritage in imaging technology, we’re able to push boundaries, offer pioneering solutions and challenge the pre-conceptions of print to help your business stay ahead of the curve – and the competition.

• A wide range of production models with print speeds up to 1,668 ft2/hour• Product scalability with post installation upgrade options for white or varnish ink • Fast Automated Print Head Maintenance System enables colour independent, hands-free cleaning• Pneumatic registration pins enable double-sided prints in perfect alignment

Océ Arizona® Series• World’s fastest 64” roll-to-roll printer with UVgel technology • Breakthrough productivity• Never seen before print automation• Wide and unique application range• Up to 40% reduction in ink/printing costs compared to other competitive technologies• A wide colour gamut, comparable to that of EcoSolvent inkjet printers

Océ colorado® 1640• Up to 1,389 ft2/hour• 11" to 42' media roll width• Up to 6 rolls = 13,650 ft2 of media online• Océ MediaSense technology enables printing on media up to 32mil thick• Multiple finishing options including stacking and folding• All-in-one productive print, scan, and copy system

Océ colorwave® 700• 42" wide print path• Print speed up to 12"/second • 30,000 ft2 of production per shift• 6 auto switching rolls• Efficient 1.4 picoliter inkjet technology• Robust finishing options such as rewind unit and folder• Dry and immediately stackable prints

Océ colorwave® 910

| 41

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONSIndustrial printing is the use of print technologies as a part of the manufacturing process. In this application, print is a built-in part of the end product. Membrane switches, interior décor, flooring, printing on glass, wall coverings, automotive interiors, and dimensional printing are all exciting value-added uses of industrial printing that you can offer your customers. Digital printing has advanced what industrial printing can do. For example, membrane switches have traditionally been produced by screen printing directly onto a plastic substrate to produce the overlay we typically see and touch. Digital printing of membrane switch overlays make it far more cost effective to produce short-runs and prototypes. Developments in UV digital printing technology have opened up new opportunities within this marketplace. See how industrial print applications can enhance your business.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 42 |

DIRECT PRINT CERAMIC TILEVarnish top coat can be applied for added protection after printing.

RELIEF PRINTING TILE MOLDPrint multiple layers of ink to make 3D master, which is then used to create ceramic tile mold.

CUSTOM TINSCookie or popcorn tins can be digitally printed enabling cost-effective, short-run production for seasonal or localized promotional campaigns.

CUSTOM INSTRUMENTSYou can express yourself through music as well as on the musical instrument itself by applying graphics with an Océ Arizona printer. Since the Océ Arizona printer can print on items up to two inches thick, many types of musical instruments and accessories can be easily customized.

ETCHINGThe Océ Arizona printer is ideal to print resists for chemical etching. This digital approach can be done more quickly and cost effectively than the traditional screen printing method. Applications based on this can range from rotary die manufacturing to circuit board production.

MEMBRANE SWITCHESMembrane switches are used everywhere from microwave ovens and gas pumps to television remote controls. A membrane switch includes a graphic overlay showing numbers, text, or symbols.

| 43

CLEANING SPONGESPrint directly onto cleaning sponges.

CUSTOM LABELED PENCILSCustom jig created to hold pencils on table as batches are printed.

CANDY TINSPrint directly onto pre-made candy tins using the White Ink Option.

PROMOTIONAL ITEMSGive-away items or “swag” are promotional items that typically require customization. Using a mold these items can be easily and accurately produced and customized in large batches all in one flow on your flatbed printer. Benefits of using a flatbed for these applications include, the ability to do short runs, limitless graphical possibilities, and quick turnaround.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 44 |

APPARELPrint custom flip-flops (sandals) directly onto foam then cut on the Océ ProCut digital cutter.

INFLATABLESPrint directly on deflated inflatables in any shape.

EVENT COINSA highly customizable application with possible high volumes of printing, that is easy to print and cut.

MEMORY CARDSThe Océ Arizona does an excellent job of decorating flat, small objects that are held in place using a jig created on the Océ ProCut digital cutter.

CDS AND DVDSHigh volumes of disk media are typically printed by highly automated methods, but a few hundred can quickly and easily be printed on the printer for limited editions, special occasions and corporate events. Using a standard design and a pre-cut printing template reduces the set up time and effort required.

DECAL TRANSFERSPrint on transfer media then apply to garment using household iron appliance. Take advantage of the White Ink Option to create stunning graphics on darker materials.

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PROMOTIONAL ITEMS CONTINUED...

WOOD PLAQUESWood plaque applications are exceptional ways for your customers to

express the value of their brand in displaying articles and awards. They are a great application for both indoor and outdoor use.

PHONE CASESPersonalization drives demand for digital product decoration and phone

covers are just one example of a common item that can be imprinted to better reflect its owner. Using the Océ Arizona you can print directly onto

the flat surface of pre-manufactured phone covers.

ACRYLIC PLAQUESThis application offers high margins for your business. Plaques are most often used in waiting areas such as a doctor’s office, a business or manufacturing facility and are a great way to display honours or awards.

NAME PLATESCustom name plates can come in many different sizes and shapes. This application can be printed, engraved or both and can include materials like metal, plastic, and even wood.

46 |

STICKERS AND DECALSStickers, labels, and decals can include a number of items used by

packaging firms, cleaning services, product manufacturers, small engine, automotive and RV manufacturers, or any type of hardware or equipment

manufacturing company.

HAND FANSHand fans are a fun and an imaginative way to help your customer

communicate their brand and/or messaging at venues like trade shows, concerts, or sports events. These are great takeaways and can be

uniquely branded.

DOOR HANGERSDoor hangers are both functional and effective in communicating your message. Easy to produce and inexpensive, door hangers can be printed on low-cost paperboard, or for added durability printed on styrene or PVC either single- or double-sided.

RULERSCustom-printed rulers, paint stirs, yard sticks, and even tape measures are a great vehicle helping your customers to market messages, brand, or their business. These items are also great as custom gifts for almost any occasion or event.

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METALLIC EFFECTSPRINTING TECHNIQUEMetallic ink isn’t available for the Océ Arizona printer, but metallic–like effects can be achieved in a variety of ways that can compare to more costly to produce metallic screen printed inks.

• Océ Arizona printer with CMYKWV inks• Non-metallic or metallic media

• Fine art and photography• Interior décor• Business collateral• Individual use

PREP TIME:30 min - 1 hour

PRINT TIME:Depending on the level of texture desired,

print times can be significant

PRINT PARAMETERS:• Production - Quality• Lamps: 5-7• Media Profile: Generic

INSTRUCTIONS1. Create data to accentuate metallic looks. Gradients and blends that simulate metals and images with 3-dimensional style shading will be helpful in creating the illusion of metal.

2. White ink may be required when printing such effects on non-white materials. Create spot white data for these applications. As well, make use of the printer’s unique ability to print white ink volumes of greater and less than 100% as well as gradients. This ability can be used to accentuate contrast and shading as well as to build textural elements.

Source: Océ Display Graphics Systems (ODGS)48 |

3. The addition of varnish to prints can be used to accentuate metal looks. Build spot data to add high gloss varnish to small shiny highlight areas. Or create data to print a more satiny look by mapping varnish area data to the spot channel, a highly ink limited and linearized version of varnish, which is handled by the printer as a regular ink channel. In addition, another satin look can be obtained by canceling the printing of varnish areas after the first priming pass.

4. The ink load composition of data in relation to the substrate will affect the metallic look possible. For example, on printer models with available light inks, light refracting off of ink droplets of low saturation areas creates a pearlescent look, especially on glossy materials. Because of UV inks solid nature, higher ink loaded areas may block out the effects of printing on metallic media. While this look may sometimes be desired, crosshatching and holes can be added in shadow areas of data to allow some media show through.

5. Printing onto metallized media can give brighter and more diverse effects than using ink, though the consumables cost is higher. Rigid metallic media are available such as Dibond metallic finish materials, which print well and exhibit good ink adhesion. There are also many flexible metallic and reflective media manufactured with inkjet coatings.

6. Alternatively, post print methods are available. There is a cold-foil method where a UV-curable glue-like varnish is applied to the print, and foil is brought into contact with it. UV light is shone on top, passing through the thin foil and curing the glue. Alternatively, a heat-activated glue is used. The foil is peeled off and only adheres to the glued areas.

TIPExample printed on gold Dibond. During file set up we place white ink under the body of the astronaut only, allowing the metallic gold to show through the helmet. We then added layers of varnish to accentuate the metallic media and allow this portion of the image to stand out from the rest.

Source: Océ Display Graphics Systems (ODGS) | 49

EXHIBIT AND EVENT APPLICATIONSCreate a dramatic impression with your trade show or museum exhibit. Create precise art reproductions, direct attention with banners and floor graphics, or use a backlit display to grab interest. Large format printing will allow you to bring a napkin sketch to life in ways you never thought possible. You can print displays that are easily transported for traveling exhibits including trade show booths, hanging signs, and portable backdrops. Help your client build their brand, product or inform their audience with these creative applications. Learn more about all the applications you can offer your client to create an unforgettable exhibit.

BANNERSExhibit banners invite the audience’s attention to read key information about the exhibitor’s company or products. Because these banners may be used multiple times, it is important to use a durable and pliable media. It is also important that the banner block out light so that the signage is easily legible.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 50 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

ACRYLIC DISPLAYSUse the Océ ProCut digital cutter to score and cut acrylic panels to fit into metal frames that are side-lit with LEDs.

COMPOSITE BOARD TRI-FOLD SCREENComposite board is an eco-friendly material, lightweight, yet durable and rigid, very receptive to UV ink on the Océ Arizona printer. It cuts

easily on the Océ ProCut Digital Cutter and has a wide variety of finishing options. This simple-to-produce photo screen design makes use

of all these qualities in a saleable piece.

POP-UP STANDS IN BOXESThe pop-up stand, base and shipping/carry-case were all printed

directly on Re-Board substrate and then a vinyl finishing strip was added to the stand base.

WALL MURALSTo give any event or exhibit visual impact, create tiled mosaic murals composed of thousands of photos.

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EXHIBIT AND EVENT APPLICATIONS CONTINUED...

AIR DISPLAYSTake your printing offerings to the next level – the air! A unique and eye

catching application that makes use of the Océ ProCuts accuracy and the printers ability to print on unusual surfaces.

LIFE SIZED CUT-OUTSQuick to print and cut using commonly available media, this application

is another high value service to offer potential clients.

BACKLITSTraditionally backlit displays have been printed on glossy films, but today’s backlits are printed on diverse materials such as fabric, Plexiglas, and photo media. Picking the right media depends on many factors including, expected life of the display, type of display case, and shipping requirements.

DISPLAY STANDSCreate interactive display stands to hold literature, tablets or computers by printing directly on Dibond.

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HANGING SIGNSHanging signs are available in a variety of materials for both indoor and outdoor applications. Materials like acrylic, Dibond, corrugated plastic,

wood, aluminum, foam core, PVC, fabric, textile, and vinyl banner are commonly used for hanging signs.

TRADE SHOW BOOTHSThere are two main preprinted options that exist for trade show booth

walls, rigid and fabric panels. Rigid materials minimize on-site labour, while fabric or roll-based materials minimize shipping costs.

PORTABLE BACKDROPSPortable backdrops help create a professional atmosphere which will elevate the visual impact of small booths. They are almost exclusively printed on fabric and mounted on expandable frames. Backdrops are usually reused many times and, typically, contain static information about the company or product offered.

FLOOR GRAPHICSFloor graphic applications are strategically placed where they can easily capture attention in order to communicate a brand’s message. Most floor graphics are short- to-medium-term expected to last a minimum of six months, depending on foot traffic and environment.

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Exclusive to Canon, Auto Pilot is an overhead camera system that automatically identifies jobs on the Océ ProCut digital cutter and semi-automates cutting from rolls and sheets. Auto Pilot delivers significant productivity gains, dramatically reducing manual operator intervention at the finishing stage, as it supports the ability to continuously process cutting jobs. HOW DOES THIS TECHNOLOGY WORK?Auto Pilot incorporates Canon’s advanced EOS imaging technology in a gantry or ceiling-mounted system, and recognizes proprietary registration marks (called fiducials) on the printed media in order to automatically identify jobs on the cutter surface. This Océ ProCut Option converts the data to an instruction via the Océ ProCut Prepress software to the Océ ProCut Vision software, which then processes each job on the Océ ProCut cutter surface based on its individual finishing specifications, including all processes from cutting to creasing to kiss-cutting.

REGULAR WORKFLOW VS. OCÉ AUTO PILOT WORKFLOWProductivity depends on workflow efficiency and factors such as processing time, reaction time, media loading and unloading time. With the new Océ Auto Pilot system, finishing jobs can be processed quicker and save operator time when compared to the current workflow. This option sets new standards for production efficiency.

REGULAR WORK FLOW

Initiate “Job A” Processing Unload “Job A”Initiate “Job B” Processing Unload “Job B“

Initiate “Job C” Processing Unload “Job C”

Operator Time Operator Free Operator Time Operator Free Operator Time Operator Free Operator Time

OCÉ AUTO PILOT WORK FLOW

Add all 3 jobs Automatic processing of all 3 jobs Unloading

Operator Time Operator Free Operator Time

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CONTINUOUS CUTTING OF RIGID BOARDSKeeps the Océ ProCut cutter going and increases productivity. Previously, full or semi-automation was only attractive for volume jobs. With Océ Auto Pilot you have full flexibility.

NON-STOP CUTTING OF DIFFERENT ROLL JOBSThe Océ Auto Pilot system automatically and continuously identifies jobs, cuts, and then feeds forward to the next job!

ONE CLICK TECHNOLOGYWith just one click the Océ Auto Pilot system automatically identifies and initiates processing of all jobs placed on the cutter. You can even add different jobs on different materials and process them all at the same time. Simply load the cutter table with your printed jobs, and the camera will advise the cutter regarding the position and tools required to complete the jobs.

• Continuously processes multiple jobs• Automatically initiates processing• Limited Operator intervention• More flexible workflow• Faster production with very limited manual handling during processing

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CUTTING WITHOUT PRINTINGThe finishing stage is typically the most labour intensive and costly due to a manual cutting process. A streamlined print and cut workflow brings cutting into the modern age by utilizing a sophisticated, automated workflow start to finish. By incorporating display graphics cutting tables, an optical registration system and cutting software into your workflow, cutting is no longer a bottleneck. Even complex contour or kiss-cutting is a breeze.

3D DINOSAURThis 3D dinosaur skeleton was created using foam-board material and the Océ ProCut digital cutting system.

ALUMINUM TABLEUse your digital cutter to create any shape using aluminum and then

simply bend to create a table.

KIRIGAMIKirigami is the art of folding a sheet of paper and then cutting a pattern

to reveal a silhouette. The pattern can be as simple as a flower or snowflake or as intricate as a building or landscape.

RE-BOARD STRUCTURAL SHELVINGFor commercial or individual use, lightweight structural shelving can be created using Re-Board and a digital cutter.

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The overwhelming majority of digital prints require trimming or contour cutting once printing is complete. For most shops, trimming and contour cutting a print - either on flexible or rigid media - is a manual process or an outsourcing expense. Manual cutting takes time, is labour-intensive and generates errors, resulting in costly reprints, material waste, lost productivity, and missed deadlines. While outsourcing is also an added expense, it can significantly affect your timeline and takes the control of a project out of your hands. Adding an Océ ProCut digital cutter to your workflow allows you to turn around jobs faster, at less expense, and take on jobs you've previously had to turn away.

CONTOUR THROUGH-CUT KISS-CUT ROUTING CREASE

DIMENSIONAL AND TEXTURED PRINTING APPLICATIONSHelp your customers embrace their sense of touch and experience print in new ways. Print does not need to be limited to the sense of sight but can also be a tactile experience. Now you can have graphics that not only look good but feel good too. Multiple layers of ink can be used to create texture and dimension. Now you can replicate the brushstrokes in an oil painting, create embossed letters or logos, simulate real world items like snakeskin or wood grain or even print braille to produce ADA-compliant signage. Dimensional printing opens up exciting new high-margin opportunities that few can produce. Find out how dimensional printing can elevate your sales.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 58 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

ADA BRAILLEADA-compliant signs are produced quicker and at a much lower cost due to the exceptional accuracy of the Océ Arizona. An ink drop can be placed on top of another to build up braille characters to meet exacting dimensions producing consistent, tactile lettering.

ART REPRODUCTIONReproductions require an exceptional level of colour accuracy and resolution and are used in interior décor settings like offices and homes, or for the archiving needs of museums and galleries.

COASTERSSlightly raised patterns or images can help keep condensation or liquid on the outside of the glass from creating a vacuum between the glass and the coaster. This allows the two to more easily separate from each other so the coaster stays on the table when you raise your glass.

PHONE CASESPersonalization drives demand for digital product decoration and phone covers are just one example of a common item that can be imprinted to better reflect its owner.

RETAIL DISPLAYDimensional printing can be used in the retail display environment as a texture element or as a type treatment such as embossed letters or logos. Displays with a tactile feel can make more of a connection to the customer and better convey the brand’s messaging.

TILES & WALL PANELSPrint textures like wood grain, stone, or even snakeskin onto tiles or larger wall panels, interior décor options are nearly limitless. These textured panels are often less expensive to produce than some of the materials that it simulates and are usually lighter weight and easier to work with.

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STICKER AND LABEL APPLICATIONSStickers and labels have many different applications. Labels may be used for any combination of identification, information, warning instructions for use, environmental advice or advertising. They can be either temporary or permanent depending on the application. From branding products to highlighting and posting warning information in a manufacturing or work zone, stickers and labels can be a cost-effective solution to expensive custom packaging. One example is to make customized gift bags simply by adding your own creative label to it. Custom labels can also be used in stores for product descriptions or price tags. Repositionable labels can be easily changed as the need arises, or use durable and permanent labels when the application calls for it. Labels or custom stickers are a great tool for any business or office environment. Whatever the occasion, discover how offering stickers and labels as an application will set you apart.

DECALSUsed in a wide variety of markets, decals can be promotional, decorative, or informational for longer term use in outdoor environments. Decals are typically printed on a vinyl pressure-sensitive adhesive media and cut in all sorts of shapes. They can also be printed on paper with a mounting adhesive specific to the end application and laminated for more durability or enhancement.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 60 |

PACKAGING LABELSPersonalization and speed to market are two factors which are changing the label printing market. Digital printers allows for rapid prototypes of labels and economical short runs. Labels can either be printed on media with an adhesive backing and liner or on media with no pre-applied adhesives.

PERMANENTPermanent stickers and labels can be used for a variety of long-term

applications such as labeling, hazard warnings, product identification, and mailing. Permanent stickers and labels are typically printed on a

permanent vinyl which allows for flexibility as well as protection against outside elements such as rain and sunlight.

STATIC CLINGStatic clings are often found in storefront windows, car windows, mirrors,

and more. They are customizable with logos, company information, phone numbers, pictures, etc. Typically printed directly on a durable material

that uses static electricity to stay in place on a clean glass surface, static clings can have white or clear backing and can be applied to the front

and back of the print.

REPOSITIONABLERepositionable stickers and labels can be used for short-term advertising, directional or, and decorative purposes. They are a mobile, inexpensive, and non-permanent way to advertise products or events. One of the most common media types to be used for this application would be removable vinyl since it is both durable and non-permanent.

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Inkjet is no longer just a theory for commercial printers, but the new reality. As customer demands evolve towards shorter runs, quicker turn-arounds, variable data, and specific papers, embracing inkjet ensures your business won’t be left behind. With this in mind, Canon has taken their market-leading inkjet technology and designed the Océ VarioPrint® i300 sheet fed press.

PROMOTIONAL DIRECT MAIL MARKETING COLLATERAL PHOTOBOOKS BOOKS NEWSLETTERS MANUALS CALENDARS

• Fastest inkjet sheet fed press with a production speed up to 294* ipm• No “make ready” time • Consolidate monochrome and colour work • Refill media and unstack prints all without stopping the press• Print on a wide range of standard offset and inkjet media• Intermix media without waiting for the press to adjust itself

• Technologies from our Océ VarioPrint 6000 Ultra+ and Océ ColorStream• Easy to use, accelerating your business’ offset-to-digital print migration • Backed by our coast-to-coast service• Team of G7 certified workflow and colour management specialists

62 |

Inkjet is no longer just a theory for commercial printers, but the new reality. As customer demands evolve towards shorter runs, quicker turn-arounds, variable data, and specific papers, embracing inkjet ensures your business won’t be left behind. With this in mind, Canon has taken their market-leading inkjet technology and designed the Océ VarioPrint® i300 sheet fed press.

PROMOTIONAL DIRECT MAIL MARKETING COLLATERAL PHOTOBOOKS BOOKS NEWSLETTERS MANUALS CALENDARS

• Fastest inkjet sheet fed press with a production speed up to 294* ipm• No “make ready” time • Consolidate monochrome and colour work • Refill media and unstack prints all without stopping the press• Print on a wide range of standard offset and inkjet media• Intermix media without waiting for the press to adjust itself

• Technologies from our Océ VarioPrint 6000 Ultra+ and Océ ColorStream• Easy to use, accelerating your business’ offset-to-digital print migration • Backed by our coast-to-coast service• Team of G7 certified workflow and colour management specialists

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THINKING ABOUT BUYING A FLATBED PRINTER?Are you considering adding a UV flatbed printer to your business? Are you a bit perplexed with making the right choice between all the models currently available? How do you pick the one that’s not only right for your business today, but right for you in the future, as your business grows tomorrow and beyond? Below is an overview of topics we investigate in our 12-page Flatbed Buyer’s Guide.

FORM

AT

VS.MOVING MEDIA TRUE FLATBED

Six-colour ink set and fixed drop size

VS.Four-colour ink set with variable drop size

CURING METHODS

OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONSPR

INT

HEA

D

TEC

HN

OLO

GY

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ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS

OTHER QUESTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS

Which RIP to use?

Service & Support

Do you really need white ink?

Visit canon.ca to download the full, 12 page “Flatbed Buyer’s Guide”

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PRODUCT CUSTOMIZATIONDeliver top-quality applications as diverse as your customers’ imaginations with the ability to directly print onto many different flexible or rigid materials such as doors, tabletops, window blinds, promotional items or even toilet seats. Since the images are printed directly onto the substrate, you can eliminate workflow steps, saving time and money.

POP-UP TENTSCustom canopies and tents are the perfect promotional tool. They

travel easily and can be set up quickly. Custom pop-up tents are great vehicles to help your customers communicate unique product or brand information at venues like trade shows, events, festivals, or promotional

occasions.

CUSTOM AWNINGSLightweight awnings made from a water-impervious coated fabric allow you to produce seasonal, cost effective awnings. Whether it is a full-colour graphic, custom image, a logo or slogan, you can produce high-value graphics on a variety of textile products for weddings, festivals, and special events!

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 66 |

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity”

IRON-ON TRANSFERSPrint on transfer media then apply to garment using household iron appliance. Take advantage of the White Ink Option to create stunning graphics on darker materials.

CHALKBOARDSCreate personalized chalkboards for scorekeeping, restaurants, sports teams, etc. by printing directly onto chalkboards using the White Ink Option.

PUZZLESJigsaw puzzles are a fun and different way to personalize a gift or commemorate a special event. Coated pre-cut puzzle blanks are inexpensive and in-house produced ones can be created from common board materials.

PLEXIGLAS TABLESCreate custom tables using the White Ink Option to second-surface print on Plexiglas then thermoform to create legs.

SKATEBOARDSPrint directly onto both sides of plywood, cut, then add wheels. It’s just that easy!

TEA LIGHT HOLDERSA simple to produce promotional item, using the Océ Arizona and Océ ProCut.

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PRODUCT CUSTOMIZATION CONTINUED...

WOODEN TOYSThese throw-back wooden toys were easily and quickly mass produced by using the White Ink Option to print directly onto wood and then cut on the Océ ProCut.

POLYSTYRENE FURNITUREPrint directly onto Polystyrene and cut on an Océ ProCut digital cutting system.

RE-BOARD FURNITUREProduce fun furniture quickly and easily by printing on Re-Board substrate and cutting on the Océ ProCut digital cutter.

TABLETOPSPrint on a precut wood to create stunning tabletops in any shape.

GLASS TABLETOPS‘Ocean’ type glass is a fairly easy substrate to print on, especially when printing second surface, as the adhesion requirements are less robust than those of direct first surface printing .

DRINK COASTERSPrinted on acrylic and finished with lacquer spray for effect and protection.

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PAPER PLANESA fun little promo piece to produce using the Arizona and Pro Cut, quick and easy to print and assemble.

DARTBOARDSIn almost every bar, pub, and basement rec room there is a dartboard waiting to be personalized. The key to economically printing these is to pre-prime the surface.

SCALE MODELWhen the real thing is too big or difficult to transport, detailed scale models can be created easily by printing on foam-board material then cutting on the Océ ProCut.

MAQUETTE MODELSGo beyond the blueprint by printing and cutting 3D architectural models.

CEILING FANSCeiling fans are usually something we try to ignore; utilitarian, but necessary. Transform these necessities into branded and decorative additions to a space.

FOOD POUCHESThese food packages were printed on polyethylene for use on the International Space Station in 2013.

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PRODUCT CUSTOMIZATION CONTINUED...

BICYCLE FENDERPrint on aluminum roll stock using Roll Media Option and then encapsulate in plastic after trimming.

MIRRORSThe Océ Arizona printer is able to print on reflective media, which allows for high value-added applications such as printing on mirrors and other reflective materials.

DUST BINSThis application makes use of the Océ Arizona’s ability to print on thin sheet materials that can be bent after printing to create customizable products such as waste bins.

VINYL TABLECLOTHSThis application uses second-surface printing to create durable custom tablecloths for restaurants and coffee shops.

INSULATIONPrinted directly onto sound insulation panels and then compressed before re-cutting on the Océ ProCut.

STEEL TANKSPrint on pre-cut 2mm flat steel plates then form into cylinders.

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PRODUCT CUSTOMIZATION CONTINUED...

ACRYLIC LAMPSApply primer to acrylic before printing and cutting.

FLUORESCENT LIGHT LENSESEnhance spaces such as offices and lobbies with custom fluorescent light lenses. Setup and preparation time is minimal, yet the result is quite appealing and the potential market huge.

YOGA MATSThis application is ideal for yoga studios that provide mats or for individual yoga enthusiasts who want to personalize their mats. Printing is simple and ink adhesion is good on common materials.

EMBOSSING FOILThe solid nature of the Océ Arizonas UV ink when cured makes it possible to create dimensional embossing effects on foils; another unique option to offer print customers.

BEACH CHAIRSProduce quality custom artwork on folding chairs, stadium seat cushions, director’s chairs, and even beach chairs helping your customers promote their businesses, products, events, or sports teams.

PLASTIC CARRY CASECut and creased on an Océ ProCut digital cutting system.

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GIS AND MAPSHelp your customer visually represent data on a map or aerial photo and then filter that data to produce a type of visual report. This application is called Geographic Information System (GIS) and is controlled through software applications such as ArcGIS® and ArcView®, both created by ESRI. Though computer-based, GIS is basically a map at heart. Customers will always be in need of hard copies and will demand fine crisp lines, vibrant colours, and extreme accuracy as well as fast turnaround in instances such as weather warnings or other emergency situations. Productivity is essential for printing GIS applications. Many times the file sizes are extremely large, which means you need easy job submission tools to process these files correctly and quickly. GIS maps are often taken out in the field under extreme weather conditions, necessitating the ability to print on durable media like Tyvek® to ensure the maps are not damaged. Learn how offering GIS applications can help grow your customer base.

DIRECTIONALDirectional GIS applications are intended to assist a person in getting

to a location, whether by foot, air, or vehicle. Uses for directional GIS include road maps, parks and recreational maps, work site maps, and

many more. GIS can be printed on basically any media types from bond to Tyvek to removable adhesive media. This is an ideal application to

realize new revenue streams for your business.

CONSTRUCTIONGIS in construction allows for better and more economical designs, safer structures, and better built parks and roads. GIS is becoming critical in the construction industry as it is crucial to have accurate spatial descriptions, aerials of potential construction sites whether it be for new roads or a city park. Without a mapped overview of the land, it would be impossible for the correct and safe construction of an infrastructure.

OUTDOORIt can be extremely expensive to print multiple sets for whether the prints get damaged due to weather, basic wear or tear, or a simple coffee spill, being able to print GIS work on a weather-resistant media, such as Tyvek, allows prints to stay intact for longer periods of time. This is extremely popular in the construction industry, landscaping, utilities, the field branches of the military, and rescue and recovery organizations.

Source: Portions from Canon Solution America’s “Spectrum of Creativity” 72 |

The Océ ColorWave 700 is an ultra-flexible print, copy, and scan system designed to maximize your business potential.

Océ MediaSense Technology automatically adjusts to media up to 800 μm allowing you to tackle a vast array of popular and specialty applications.

Reduce operator time with easy to use touch screen, integrated scanner, automated workflow, and the capability to hold six rolls of media.

Producing vivid colours on uncoated papers can save you up to 30% on media costs and multiple finishing options cut the amount of outsourcing needed.

Having the flexibility to switch from large orders of traditional CAD, to event banners, to one-off wallpaper orders is an asset that will ensure that you are meeting your customers’ demands, creating new revenue opportunities, and keeping your margins high.

Disposable POP Soft Signage Fine Art BacklitOutdoor Banners CAD Prints

ABOUT THE PROFESSIONAL PRINTING SOLUTIONS GROUPThe Professional Printing Solutions Group (PPSG) is a division of Canon Canada. Formed in January 2014 after Océ-Canada Inc. was amalgamated by Canon Canada Inc., PPSG is the leading provider of printing solutions for professionals. PPSG’s product offerings include digital presses, high speed digital production printers, wide format printing systems and workflow software for transaction, direct mail, graphic arts, technical documentation and colour display graphics.

ABOUT CANON CANADA INC.Canon Canada Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Canon U.S.A., is a leading provider of consumer and business-to-business digital imaging technology solutions. Innovation and cutting-edge technology have been essential ingredients in Canon’s success. Its parent company, Canon Inc., ranks among the Top 4 in US patents registered since 1994. Canon ranks among the world’s Top 30 brands and is one of Forbes’ Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies. Canon Canada Inc. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 per cent Canadian-based service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon Canada Inc. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility.

Canon Canada Inc.Professional Printing Solutions Group (PPSG)8000 Mississauga Road, Brampton, ON L6Y 5Z7

Océ, Océ Arizona, Océ ProCut, Océ VarioPrint, Océ ColorWave, and Océ Colorado are registered trade-marks of Océ-Technologies B.V. in Canada. CANON is a registered trade-mark of Canon Inc. in Canada. All other referenced product names and marks are trade-marks of their respective owners and are hereby acknowledged. © 2017 Canon Canada Inc.