SMART DESIGN

48 | L&L
refer to as 'HDFX screening' through
pre-press, which Daly describes as a
clean, smooth process because the
system produces stellar quality and
communicates effectively between
stations. Proofing is carefully done
by comparing a PDF to the proof of
the plate. Each pixel for every job is
reviewed.
Once the pre-press department
gives the green light, their peers in
the prep kitchen prepare everything
that the press needs to complete the
job, streamlining time to press. During
plate mounting the quality is reviewed
one final time and errors, if any, can
be tracked effectively to reveal where
mistakes have been made.
Complex constructions – instant
redeemable coupons, three-panel label
on label, extended content booklets and
repositionable labels – are produced
on combination process machines built
for flexible configuration. Capabilities
include up to 12 print stations using
multi-level screening to enhance
contrast and clarity, raised and specialty
varnishes, foiling and embossing, all in
a single pass. The advanced machinery
allows operators to change over and
move into a new job on the fly.
Daly says, ‘The technology allows
for the quick change manufacturing
required to bring innovation at a
competitive price. It’s easy to want
innovation. Execution is a different story
altogether.'
Jeff Anderson of Colgate-Palmolive
Canada recently worked with ASL Print
FX on a project for Mennen Speedstick.
He says, ‘The ASL team was asked
to provide a solution to a promotional
challenge for Mennen. With a tight
delivery date, the team provided a
turnkey solution for a sticker that met all
the criteria. This was a complex die line
with perforations and back splits that
used an adhesive that was approved
skin safe. This was achieved on time
and on budget. Our experiences with
the team are that they have a passion
for complex challenges, and stretching
technology that achieves unique
offerings to retail.’
In addition to the various opportunities
for layering processes for the most
impact on a label substrate, ASL Print
FX has a proven track record with
thermochromatic and color shifting
inks, pearlescents, glitter, glow in the
dark and scratch and scented inks that
increase the depth of the label and the
attention it can grab on the shelf.
Recently the converter started sending
one of its main press operators on client
visits with customer service, which
enhances communication and knowledge-sharing
on how best to design
shelf-dominating labels.
When it comes to digital printing
technology, Daly says, ‘Digital printing
advancements are challenging
conventional leaders to be more flexible
in their print disciplines. We are pleased
with the capability and flexibility of our
equipment and have the ability to keep
the integrity of a brand’s color no matter
which substrate, press or other variables
involved that can affect the outcome of a
high quality label.’
Vision systems provide 100 percent
inspection on the press and again in
rewinding and fulfillment so that every
label that is printed and converted is
quality approved.
Training for associates is conducted
every two weeks, featuring new topics
for specific responsibilities such as
sales, warehouse efficiency and Lean
tactics. The converter says over 95
percent of employees attend each
session.
It’s clear that when brandowners
are looking to protect their image and
improve the shopping experience
for consumers through their brand’s
label and packaging, that ASL Print FX
has the skills to support such needs.
COLGATE Mennen Speedstick
Technology, ingenuity, excellent associates
and a willingness to think beyond the
ordinary is what makes the ASL name
stand out to dynamic brands looking to
differentiate in the North American market.
WORLD LABEL AWARD WINNERS
ASL Print FX was honored with a World Label
Award for excellence in technical achievement
two years in a row, most recently in 2012 for
its Red Tile Central Coast label. The label was
judged in the Flexo Wine & Spirits category by
the World Label Award Association. ASL Print
FX had earned Best of Show recognition at the
2011 TLMI awards competition for this label.
In 2011 the converter won a World Label
Award for the Dan Aykroyd 2008 Sauvignon
Blanc label, while earning the TLMI Best of
Show recognition as well.
LABELS&LABELING
ASL World Label Award winning productions