Finding the right partner for a distinct challenge

Buying a digital press to support variable work is one thing. Finding a partner that can support the complexity of shelf-edge communications over a long-term relationship is another. Part of what makes Vestcom a leader in shelf-edge media is its ability to turn highly complex data into relevant, user-friendly communications that guide consumers’ purchasing decisions.

Given the variability, seasonality, and location-specific requirements of these applications, Vestcom has implemented Flint Group Digital Xeikon’s solutions for more than two decades, leaning on its continuous web-fed dry-toner technology to produce high volumes of variable data print.

Unlike conventional printing platforms such as flexography and offset, Xeikon’s roll-fed digital printing equipment checks several key boxes for Vestcom’s shelf-edge media production, including:

■ Efficient variable data printing

■ Uptime and reliability that saves time and money

■ High-quality graphics and text with consistent color

■ Fast turnaround times that meet critical retail deadlines

■ Reliable integration into automated production workflows

In it for the long therm

Over the course of its more than 20-year relationship with Xeikon, Vestcom has installed multiple generations of equipment, starting with the 5000 series and now relying on the SX30000 platform for much of the production. The SX30000 is based on Xeikon’s SIRIUS dry toner technology and reaches speeds of 404 pages per minute, translating to 2,545 B2 sheets per hour. The platform also offers a 1,200-dpi print resolution to support the quality needed in shelf-edge communications.

In testament to the success of the relationship, Vestcom continues to expand its fleet of Xeikon digital presses and technology upgrades to maintain its state-of-the-art production capabilities.

“Over more than 20 years, Flint Group Digital Xeikon has been more than a supplier to Vestcom,” David Lewis, VP of operations and supply chain for Vestcom, said. “They have been a trusted partner. As our business and production requirements have evolved, their team has continued to provide the expertise, responsiveness, and innovation needed to support demanding retail applications. Our continued investment across multiple generations of Xeikon technology reflects the strength of the relationship and our confidence in their roadmap, service organization, and ability to support our future growth.”

Delivering results

The solutions that Vestcom has developed and consistently delivers using its Xeikon printing equipment have transformed retail environments by easing store employees’ jobs, improving the consumer experience, and ensuring accuracy throughout the aisles. The introduction of its latest storeLink™ platform is among these innovations, leveraging Vestcom’s data management expertise to solve for the unique challenges of managing an increasingly hybrid retail store environment, encompassing both digital and print vehicles. The cloud-based platform serves as the central command and control for both digital and printed price and media communications. The easy to use web and mobile interface also enables retail teams to manage in-store printing, enabling dynamic batch creation and store-level customization.

Robert Welford, Flint Group Digital Xeikon’s sales president for North America, says the longstanding relationship between Vestcom and Xeikon has provided a foundation for continued innovation.

“It supports a continued focus on operational excellence and the delivery of high-quality, technology-driven shelf-edge media solutions for retailers and consumer packaged goods companies,” Welford said. “Together, the companies are building on a relationship that has advanced over decades through practical results, strategic alignment, and a shared commitment to what comes next.”