Packaging MEA had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Matthew Burton, the Sales Director of AB Graphic International, during HP’s pre-drupa press conference and DScoop event on 22nd and 23rd in Indianapolis last week. In this exclusive interview, we delve into ABG’s exciting plans for drupa 2024, their collaboration with HP on the NSW technology, and their commitment to the future of label and packaging printing.
Usha: Thank you for joining us, Matthew. To kick things off, could you provide a brief overview of yourself, your role, and the primary focus of AB Graphic International?
Matthew: Certainly. As the Sales Director, I oversee all commercial and marketing activities and contribute to new product development. AB Graphic International, a family-owned business based in the UK, has been at the forefront of innovation in the labeling and packaging industry for over seven decades.
Usha: Congratulations on the successful collaboration between ABG and HP Indigo for the NSW technology. Can you elaborate on this technology and its advantages for label printers, particularly in terms of minimizing make-ready times and enabling seamless production?
Matthew: Sure. We’ve been supplying unwinders and rewinders with Non-Stop Technology (NSW) for the label and packaging space for years. This collaboration with HP is the first time we’ve integrated this technology into a digital press like the HP Indigo V12. It translates to less downtime, more uptime, and significantly more printing time for label printers. Estimates show operators can save up to 15 minutes per hour on web changes with NSW.
Usha: Is this NSW technology exclusive to HP, or can it be integrated with other platforms?
Matthew: Currently, the integrated solution we have is unique to HP. We do offer standalone NSW unwinders and rewinders for flexo presses and converting lines. But the collaboration with HP provides a fully integrated solution specifically designed for the V12 press.
Usha: ABG also offers shrink sleeve sealing machines. How do they improve efficiency and reliability?
Matthew: We have a suite of shrink sleeve products, including our innovative Smart wheel system. This system ensures consistent solvent application, leading to better seam quality, reduced waste, and ultimately, a more efficient shrink sleeve production process.
Usha: Shifting gears, what can we expect from ABG at drupa 2024? Any exciting launches planned?
Matthew: This year is a big one for ABG – it’s our 70th anniversary! We have a busy schedule with Dscoop, Drupa, and Label Expo Chicago. We’ll be announcing more product launches throughout the year, but at Drupa, for the first time ever, ABG will have its own booth. We’ll be showcasing our non-digital finishing equipment alongside demonstrations on the HP booth featuring the NSW technology for the V12 press.
Usha: Finally, Matthew, what’s ABG’s message to label and packaging printers in the Middle East?
Matthew: Our commitment is clear: we want to bring automation to the label and packaging space. We recognize the challenges of skilled labor shortages, and that’s where our unique technology comes in. By simplifying processes in the finishing arena, we empower printers to run efficient and productive factories, ultimately reducing costs, improving quality, and maximizing uptime.