SA Litho Label Printers, in partnership with ROTOCON, has introduced the Pantec RHINO E flatbed finishing system to South Africa—the first installation of its kind in the country. The advanced system, known for its foil stamping, embossing, and multi-foil capabilities, aims to elevate the standard of premium label production, particularly in the wine and spirits market.
The acquisition, finalized at Labelexpo Europe 2023 and showcased during Propak Cape, represents a significant investment in innovation and quality. According to Dawrian Salies, SA Litho’s general manager, the RHINO E addresses a critical challenge in the local market: the gap between designers’ creative visions and the technical capabilities of printers.
“This was about differentiation,” Salies said. “The wine and spirits sector demands intricate designs and flawless finishing. With the RHINO E, we now have the tools to compete directly with global producers and deliver unmatched precision.”
The RHINO E’s technical capabilities include speeds of up to 18,000 strokes per hour and the ability to handle complex multi-foil designs in a single pass. These features ensure efficiency, accuracy, and significant material savings, making the system ideal for short runs and high-value products.
Roger Meierhofer, senior area sales manager at Pantec Schweiz AG, highlighted the machine’s innovative features, such as its multi-zone heating system and electronically controlled adjustments. “The RHINO E combines speed with precision, enabling intricate designs and holographic effects while maintaining cost efficiency,” Meierhofer noted.
SA Litho’s machine operator, Wayne Cedras, described the system as a “game-changer.” He emphasized its ability to perform silk screening, embossing, and foiling in a single pass, enhancing both quality and operational efficiency.
ROTOCON, the exclusive distributor of Pantec in South Africa, facilitated the installation. Group CEO Michael Aengenvoort underscored the collaboration’s success, noting, “Our role was to ensure the RHINO E met and exceeded SA Litho’s expectations.”
The investment aligns with SA Litho’s vision of reshaping perceptions about South African manufacturing quality. “There’s a misconception that local standards can’t match international benchmarks,” Salies remarked. “With the RHINO E, we’re proving that South Africa can deliver world-class labels.”
By combining cutting-edge technology with local talent, SA Litho aims to position itself as a leader in the premium label market while supporting the growth of the South African wine and spirits industry.