Leading Photonic Printing Solutions company DataLase introduced the unique benefits of its next-generation technology to a host of global brands at this year’s prestigious InPrint Munich.
DataLase Ltd, a SATO company, was at the three-day conference, held from 12-14 November at Munich’s Trade Fair Centre, to showcase how its innovative Photonic Printing Solutions combine the benefits of traditional print methods with the flexibility of digital to enable fully customised printing at the latest point in the supply chain.
Eric Ferguson, DataLase Photonic Printing Sales Director, delivered a presentation to conference delegates, entitled ‘The next revolution in disruptive printing: Photonic Printing’ from the Applications Stage of the event. “InPrint is one of the most respected international trade conferences of the year and is an ideal platform for us to showcase our unique technology,” said Eric. “Through our presence here, we have been able to demonstrate how Photonic Printing creates endless opportunities for increased supply chain efficiency and is also an exciting and unique consumer engagement tool.
“In Photonic Printing, a functional coating containing patented DataLase laser reactive pigment is applied as a patch, using traditional print methods, such as flexography or gravure,” explained Eric. “Laser systems positioned at the latest stage of the supply chain, point of fill or point of sale, then activate this coating. The pigment changes upon exposure to the laser light, delivering an inkless, high contrast permanent print.”
He explained to the delegates how moving customisation to this latest stage of the supply chain enables the highest brand value through time-sensitive marketing campaigns that deliver superior consumer relevance.
“Photonic Printing increases flexibility when using variable data, allowing customised, individual consumer-orientated campaigns and enhanced engagement opportunities,” said Eric. “The late stage packaging customisation also enables brands to react more quickly to trends and market changes, increasing their agility and enabling them to tailor and cater to specific messages, moments or occasions in a very short timescale.
“Not only does customisation also lead to enhanced shelf appeal, but additionally the simple and effective means of communicating through packaging can be used to convey important information such as allergen advice to consumers, or to encourage positive changes in consumer recycling behaviour.”
Eric said that another benefit of pack customisation was the potential for positive impact on costs through SKU rationalisation. “Photonic Printing is so accurate and efficient that only the specific required amount of packaging ever need be produced,” he explained. “This means there is less waste, significant improvement to inventory management and variability, with knock-on effects in improved forecasting accuracy and waste reduction.”
For more information on Photonic Printing Solutions from DataLase, visit https://www.datalase.com/what-is-photonic-printing/