Midcomp installations create new signage and digital print capabilities and opportunities
Independent Packaging and Print Group (IPAK) has strengthened its digital printing and finishing capabilities through a long-standing partnership with Midcomp, dating back to 2013. Most recently, the company invested in a Zünd G3 L2500 cutting system, further enhancing its ability to unlock new opportunities in signage, POS, and short-run packaging.
Founded in 1991, IPAK has built its reputation as a specialist in corrugated packaging manufacturing and supply. Over the years, the company has expanded its offering to include litho and commercial printing, operating multiple facilities. Recognising the need to diversify, IPAK has successfully moved into large-format digital printing and finishing.
Diversifying into Large Format Digital Printing
According to Head of Operations Jaco Malan, the shift into digital print was driven by the need to broaden service offerings and meet evolving customer demands.
With significant investment in Midcomp-supplied technology – including the HP Latex 335 printer, HP Latex 64 cutter, and JHF V2800 LED UV flatbed printer – IPAK can now produce large-scale signage in-house.
This transition has enabled the company to move away from outsourced production and take full control of quality, turnaround times, and costs.
Zünd G3 L2500 Unlocks Advanced Finishing Capabilities
Installed in July, the Zünd G3 L2500 offers advanced cutting and routing capabilities for materials up to 2.5 x 1.8m. Designed as a fully customisable system, the machine supports a wide range of substrates, including foam board, Plexiglas, ABS, wood, and aluminium.
“We can customise the cutting of various materials using different tools and accessories,” said Malan. “It’s a complete signage solution with extensive capabilities.”
New Market Opportunities and Business Growth
The investment in Midcomp technology has opened new revenue streams for IPAK, particularly in:
- Signage
- Retail POS and display solutions
- Short-run, bespoke packaging
Previously limited to small-scale, outsourced signage, IPAK can now produce large-format signage on demand.
The growth of e-commerce – accelerated by COVID-19 -has also driven demand for short-run packaging. IPAK now offers in-house sampling, allowing customers to approve designs before scaling production.
HP Latex 335 Drives Efficiency and Versatility
The HP Latex 335 printer has become a key asset for proofing, sampling, and short-run production.
Key benefits include:
- Instant drying for faster turnaround
- Ability to print on a wide range of media
- High-quality label production
- Strong colour accuracy
“The machine runs daily, especially for label work, which has opened a completely new market for us,” Malan explained.
Its automated workflow also enables overnight printing, improving productivity and operational efficiency.
HP Latex 64 Enhances Workflow Integration
Working seamlessly with the HP Latex 335, the HP Latex 64 cutter offers precise cutting capabilities with automated registration and alignment via barcode integration.
This ensures:
- Efficient job recognition
- Streamlined workflow
- High accuracy for label and print finishing
JHF V2800 Enables Large Format Production
To further expand into large-format printing, IPAK invested in the JHF V2800 LED UV flatbed printer.
The machine supports substrates up to 2.4m wide and delivers:
- High-speed, high-quality output
- White ink and CMYK printing
- UV curing technology
- Bi-directional printing
Initially housed at Midcomp’s Innovation Hub during facility construction, the printer is now a core part of IPAK’s digital production environment.
Midcomp Partnership and Ongoing Support
IPAK credits Midcomp not only for supplying advanced technology but also for its reliable service and support.
“The after-sales service has been excellent,” said Malan. “Midcomp is a reputable partner, and their support gives us confidence in our investment.”
The company is already planning further enhancements, including:
- Conveyor and reel-to-reel systems for the Zünd
- Caldera RIP software integration
- Expansion with a larger JHF flatbed system
Conclusion
Through its partnership with Midcomp, IPAK has successfully transformed its digital print capabilities and operations, moving into digital print, expanding service offerings, and unlocking new growth opportunities.
By investing in advanced printing and finishing technology, the company is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the signage, packaging, and retail markets.
This article originally appeared in Sign Africa.