MiVista services empower customers to:

• Operate efficiently: Real-time visibility and printer alerts provide increased self-sufficiency and automated risk monitoring… anytime, anywhere.
• Improve continuously: Predictive analytics, automated improvement alerts and proactive prevention advice from MI helpdesk experts deliver 360-degree printer performance insight—increasing uptime and reducing costs.
• Resolve quickly: Advanced remote diagnostic capabilities allow our helpdesk technicians to streamline root cause determination and quickly identify the best way to get production up and running. 

“The benefits of MiVista will further enhance our customers’ service experience,” said Mark Hathaway, Product Marketing Manager, Connected Devices & Solutions Services at Markem-Imaje. “This connected printer services offering is available in various levels of functionality to suit the operational style of each customer individually.” 

MiVista works seamlessly with Miva (intelligent, self-support solution) and along with Remote Video Support is an integral part of MI’s comprehensive remote services offering. When used to its full potential this new service suit will make the break/fix scenario an exception rather than the rule, delivering peace of mind across the printer fleet. 

“No stone has been left unturned,” added Hathaway. “The MiVista platform has been rigorously designed and features advanced security protocols using a Microsoft Azure IoT Edge certified device. It leverages drivers that have been field tested and constantly improved for decades. Add to this our deep knowledge of MI printers—their characteristics and how they operate on a day-to-day basis—and the result is this: a fit-for-purpose, world-class, IoT service offer to meet our customers’ unique support needs.” 
 
MiVista services are currently available for the 94XX and 9750 continuous inkjet series and are being rolled out geographically to MI customers in phases. To learn more, please visit this page.

About Markem-Imaje 
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, connects products and protects brands through intelligent identification and traceability solutions. We combine decades of advanced marking and coding experience with trusted software and services to deliver the power of information in codes.  

Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize supply chain efficiencies, achieve sustainability and compliance objectives and keep products. This is intelligence, beyond the mark.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

 

Both organizations are members of the Open Credentialing Initiative (OCI), a collaborative, non-profit initiative formed by a group of trading partners, solution providers and standard organizations to support the pharmaceutical industry in adopting credentialing and digital wallet technologies to enhance supply chain security. Integrating an electronic system to trace prescription drug products is the final phase in the DSCSA program, with compliance mandatory by November 2023. Together with Spherity, Systech is introducing an Authorized Trading Partner (ATP) solution which provides efficient and error-free accreditation of partners within the pharmaceutical supply chain, following manufacture. Verifying supply chain partners between the point of creation and point of dispensation is an additional layer in protecting the end consumer.

“Our goal always, is to partner with our pharmaceutical customers on their compliance journey,” said David DeJean, Vice President of Customer Success and Business Development, Systech solutions by Markem-Imaje. “By combining Spherity’s subject expertise with our leadership in traceability, we provide a swift and easy to integrate route to best practice compliance for our customers.”

DeJean added, “Data is the key ingredient for almost all aspects of DSCSA compliance. Our role is to provide a solution for secure and reliable capture, use and storage of that data—so that our customers can focus on their core operations.”

The introduction of an ATP solution provides an additional layer of security in Systech’s traceability portfolio, which includes their Verification Router Service (VRS). Launched in partnership with Chronicled in 2019, to meet the saleable returns requirements of the DSCSA which mandates that wholesalers must verify returned products before they can be redistributed. 

Additionally, last week Systech participated in a DSCSA pilot and workshop to provide an environment where FDA, government and industry participants can engage in tabletop data simulations to better understand, and identify gaps in, systems being developed in preparation for the 2023 DSCSA requirements.

As a pioneer in pharmaceutical serialization, Systech has protected the pharmaceutical supply chain for decades helping to ensure the safety of tens of billions of products annually.

More: systechone.com/serialization/dscsa


About Systech Solutions
Systech by Markem-Imaje provides industrial coding, product authentication and traceability solutions to help our customers optimize processes, achieve compliance and combat supply chain threats. Built on decades of Systech experience as the leader in pharmaceutical serialization and MI’s trusted product identification expertise, our comprehensive brand protection suite harnesses cutting-edge technology to connect products, detect counterfeiting and meet global regulations. The world’s leading pharmaceutical companies rely on us to secure their supply chains and keep their consumers safe.

About Spherity
Spherity is a German software provider bringing secure and decentralized identity management solutions to enterprises, machines, products, data and even algorithms. Spherity provides the enabling technology to digitalize and automate compliance processes in highly regulated sectors. Spherity’s products empower cyber security, efficiency and data interoperability among digital value chains. Spherity is certified according to the information security standard ISO 27001.

Designed with speed and reliability at its heart, the SmartLase C600 is the fastest and most powerful CO2 laser in Markem-Imaje's range. It delivers high-quality, chemical-free, permanent coding and indelible marking to protect against counterfeiting on a huge variety of surfaces including PET bottles, glass, labels, confectionary labels, flexible films, inked paper/carton, and coated metals. The SmartLase C600 has been engineered to perform to the highest standards in the most demanding packaging lines—even with the increasing complexity of 1D and 2D codes.

Virtually maintenance-free, the C600 reduces operational expenses (OPEX) through fewer line stoppages and no added costs for expensive consumables or external cooling. Meanwhile, chemical-free production helps businesses meet sustainability compliance goals.

Industry 4.0-optimized and with a variety of industrial interfaces such as Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, NGPCL and full-featured CoLOS® software support, the SmartLase C600 enables Advanced Packaging intelligence. Once integrated, the intuitive user interface delivers an increase of up to 20% in operating efficiency.
With a complete IP55-compliant controller and printhead, the SmartLase C600 meets the very highest standard of safety per ISO 13849-1 up to Performance Level PLe.

“The new SmartLase C600 is our most advanced CO2 laser coder.” said Adam Krolak, Product Marketing Manager at Markem-Imaje. “It is both fast and rugged while also delivering when it comes to safety, simplicity and sustainability. Future-proofed and industry 4.0-ready, it can handle even the most challenging packaging lines while also cutting OPEX. The SmartLase C600 is perfectly placed to power up your production while also bringing down your costs.” 
More: https://www.markem-imaje.com/en/productview/SmartLase-C600

About Markem-Imaje 
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, connects products and protects brands through intelligent identification, traceability and consumer engagement solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with trusted software, services and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to help them unlock the power of information in codes.  
 
With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we empower our customers to optimize supply chain efficiencies, achieve sustainability and compliance objectives, keep products safe and engage their consumers. This is intelligence, beyond the mark. 

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

As inkjet printing celebrates its fortieth anniversary, the 9750 builds on Markem-Imaje’s four decades of excellence in continuous inkjet printers and ushers in the next generation of printers capable of powerful traceability coding including text messages up to five lines, logos, and high resolution 1D and 2D codes, on a vast array of packaging.

Featuring advanced R&D supported by proven industrial processes and methods, the 9750 has been engineered on the basis of Markem-Imaje’s Intelli’Design concept. It is designed to maximize uptime and maintain the highest performance levels in even the most demanding environments and with the highest throughput levels. Markem-Imaje’s engineers and design teams developed the 9750 to provide optimized Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), while contributing to customer’s sustainability objectives.

Powered by the latest innovations, Markem-Imaje’s unique Intelli’Inks system ensures that the 9750 delivers optimal performance and flexibility when coding different package materials. Meanwhile, Jet Speed Control technology automatically adjusts ink and printer variables to ensure drop placement, quality and code consistence.

With sustainability at its heart, the 9750’s Intelli’Design process and a portfolio of rigorously developed ink formulations, including alcohol-based, water-based and MEK-free inks in a wide variety of colors, help reduce consumable consumption and Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions by up to 50%, while improving operator safety and well-being.

The 9750’s Intelli’Swap modular system means that customers can swap out individual parts that need to be replaced and not the entire block, reducing both waste and cost. Its unrivalled consumable-saving mode option further reduces consumption and waste by up to 60%.

A modern, smartphone-style 10-inch user interface makes the 9750 one of the simplest printers to use on the market. In addition to its full stainless steel-made IP56 robustness, it is Industry 4.0-ready, making it easy to integrate into any production line.

“Markem-Imaje has earned its reputation as a true innovator in continuous inkjet printing” said Rémy Fontanet, product marketing manager, Markem-Imaje. The 9750 represents yet another step forward in inkjet technology. It’s a thoroughly-modern printer grounded in four decades of innovation and underpinned by the most stringent manufacturing standards.

No matter where you are in your technological adoption or how demanding your requirements, the 9750 will secure your investment by delivering outstanding performance and ease of use while supporting the delivery of sustainability commitments.”

Current customers who have tested it, praised the new inkjet printer. Jérôme Vaglienti, maintenance manager at SOFIC, one of the leading surgical and medical supply manufacturers, says the 9750: “Provides the codes we needed on very small spaces. It is extremely easy to use thanks to its new highly responsive user interface. The extended service intervals have become minimal which results in more uptime.”

The 9750’s full-featured Packaging Intelligence Suite™ software capacity allows for accurate, smart and optimized message design and data management across the factory from a remote location. This ensures greater accuracy and efficiency.

Remote services*, including remote diagnostics, allow for a predictive analysis, further maximizing uptime. Live helpdesk support including remote video capabilities allows the 9750 to quickly recover from unexpected technical and mechanical issues. Customers can resolve technical issues themselves anytime with the help of Markem-Imaje’s intelligent self-support solution, Miva.

More: https://www.markem-imaje.com/en/productview/9750
*Please check availability in your country

About Markem-Imaje

Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, connects products and protects brands through intelligent identification, traceability and consumer engagement solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with trusted software, services and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to help them unlock the power of information in codes.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we empower our customers to optimize supply chain efficiencies, achieve sustainability and compliance objectives, keep products safe and engage their consumers. This is intelligence, beyond the mark.

 

With customers increasingly adopting laser marking solutions for more of their product identification and packaging applications, the SmartLase F250 is the ideal solution for modern fast pace production lines. The SLF250 is the first new product launched as a result of Markem-Imaje’s acquisition of laser coding and marking solutions specialist Solaris Laser.

Highly-reliable, the SmartLase F250 reduces operational expenses through fewer line stoppages and by eliminating the requirement for ink. The SmartLase F250 delivers chemical-free production that is truly environmentally friendly and helps businesses meet sustainability compliance goals.

Compact and intelligent, the SmartLase F250 is ideal for businesses seeking best-in-class code quality at high-speed where space is at a premium. Built for even the most challenging environments, the SmartLase F250’s controller, printhead and touchscreen user interface come with at least IP55 ingress protection level which provides long and reliable operation in harsh, dusty and humid conditions. 

Packed with features, the SmartLase F250 comes industry 4.0-ready with an array of industrial interfaces that enable its safe and seamless integration with even the most complex plant automation and manufacturing execution systems. Once integrated, the intuitive user interface delivers an increase of up to 20% in operating efficiency.

“The SmartLase F250 combines speed and efficiency with simplicity, safety and sustainability.” said Alex Koudriashov, Laser Product Marketing Manager at Markem-Imaje “The F250 is a printer designed with the future in mind. Fewer line stoppages and the fact it uses no ink can radically reduce OPEX, while the elimination of chemical components makes it ideal for companies who are looking to reduce their impact on the planet.  

Virtually maintenance free, the SmartLase F250 provides additional peace of mind with the help of MIVA (Markem-Imaje Virtual Assistant) which provides customers with remote troubleshooting, while 24 or 48 hour on-site service level agreements (SLA) are available in most markets.

More: https://www.markem-imaje.com/en/productview/SmartLase-F250

 

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, connects products and protects brands through intelligent identification, traceability and consumer engagement solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with trusted software, services and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to help them unlock the power of information in codes.  

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we empower our customers to optimize supply chain efficiencies, achieve sustainability and compliance objectives, keep products safe and engage their consumers. This is intelligence, beyond the mark. 

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Applicable for a broad range of materials, the 5940 G prints grade C or better, GS1-128 compliant codes on corrugated cases and trays of fresh produce, beverages, meats, confection, and many other foods, as well as precision printing on polystyrene for frozen foods and shrink-wrap for pallet shipments. In addition, the system prints clean, crisp information and codes on porous surfaces including fabrics and non-wovens for medical personal protective equipment (PPE) masks, gowns, and diapers. 

The new inkjet coder features Markem-Imaje’s proprietary Touch Dry® inks that instantly dry on contact. The inks, which are free of odors and volatile organic compounds (VOC), are safe to handle and contribute to a more sustainable production line. Touch Dry inks will not spread along corrugated fibers and lose resolution. A variety of colored inks are available.  

The 5940 G also features a patent pending, Intelli’Flow printhead technology that avoids nozzle blockages due to ink backsplash and dust buildup.  Plus, a filtering process that degasses the ink during printing and keeps the jetting mechanism clean and clear, resulting in a higher print quality, greater throughput, reduced maintenance, and less downtime. 

The system performs well in temperatures ranging from 32° F to 104° F (0° C-40° C). 

Greg Kasprzak, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Markem-Imaje said: “The 5940 G system’s breakthrough Intelli’Flow printhead technology combined with fast-setting Touch Dry inks consistently achieves sustained, exceptional print quality of complex, compliant barcodes on corrugated cases and other difficult substrates, delivering a significant return on investment.”  

Kasprzak added: “Our customers look to us to improve efficiency on the production line, to achieve this every detail is important. For example, we’ve been able to include a specially designed ink container which is 75% larger than most competitors, cutting operator intervention by 43%. Plus, the ink containers can also be replaced without stopping production and a heat time speed of 67% faster than previous models can be achieved. In combination details like these make a significant difference to efficiency and throughput. We’ve even designed this for enhanced serviceability which will lead to greater availability and factory output, in addition to the print quality and efficiency advantages.”   

Furthermore, the 5940 G leverages Markem-Imaje’s packaging intelligence software, CoLOS to help manufacturers maintain their entire database of print jobs centrally, streamlining print management and supporting greater throughput. Plus, the 5940 G works seamlessly with the Systech Packaging Intelligence Suite™, which integrates the key pillars of packaging intelligence: message management, verification, line control and insight.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Offering an advanced range of functions, the new SmartDate® X30 RUI reduces downtime, waste, and product recalls by minimizing human error. This is achieved through multiple functions including a simple print preview and print adjust functionality, enabling dead dot detection which is viewable and adjustable with a single click.  The simple online password configuration facilitates the creation of multiple, customizable profiles allowing the operator to immediately access their required functions and begin operating in just a few clicks. 

The new RUI offers operators the ability to monitor up to five production metrics, which can be selected from a total of 9 options, directly on the home screen e.g. total print count or print cycle time.  With an external device plug-in capability, there is an option to use a keyboard, barcode scanner, and USB memory stick (offering easy message upload and download management).

The new RUI for the SmartDate® X30 is provided with a bracket and can be easily mounted anywhere on the machine. Plus, the simple installation also includes web UI or vertical network computing integration with OEM packaging machines. 

Gary Bolton, TTO Product Marketing Manager, Markem-Imaje said: “Our new RUI is a fantastic option for customers who require an enhanced range of solutions from their user interface. This simple to install RUI provides immediate benefits, helping to minimize human error and maximize uptime.  Plus, with front-end familiarity with other Markem-Imaje products, it contributes to a seamless end-to-end solution.” 

Markem-Imaje’s SmartDate® X30 thermal transfer overprinter is a robust one-box solution for installation on low-to-medium speed production lines printing on flexible film. With Markem-Imaje’s market first Advance Consumables Management (ACM) innovation - automatic set-up, ribbons, and printheads are recognized and adjusted to code minutes after start-up. This minimizes both downtime and human error. Plus, with its unique printhead monitoring the SmartDate X30 provides continuous quality. 

The SmartDate® X30 handheld terminal continues to be available for customers who require a simpler user interface.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services, and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Confirming Markem-Imaje’s participation at Fachpack, Andreas Grabotin, Zone Director DACH, Markem-Imaje said: “Our customers are facing ever-evolving challenges and our role is to support them in protecting their consumers and their brands in the changing regulatory environment and response to the complexities of global supply chains.” 

Andreas Grabotin added: “As a one-provider solution, at Markem-Imaje we can offer a global, streamlined service ensuring the highest standards of traceability, coding, marking, and consumer engagement.”

Markem-Imaje’s end-to-end supply chain solutions encompass:

• Messaging – message design, automation, and data management
• Marking & coding – primary / secondary coding and pallet labeling
• Verification & inspection – packaging accuracy, quality assurance, and data integrit
• Line control – production control, printer performance, and overall equipment effectiveness
• Serialization – full-stack L1-L4 including aggregation and pallet labeling automation
• Authentication – 100% unique, non-additive, and data-enriched digital identity
• End-to-end traceability – seamless and secure data exchange ensures end-to-end supply chain tracking
• Connected consumer – real-time authentication, trust, and credibility, and customer feedback
• Data intelligence – business insight and supply chain visibility

Visit Markem-Imaje at stand 1-443 for daily live demonstrations and benefit from show specials for printer purchases.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services, and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Confirming Markem-Imaje’s participation in PPMA, Martin Bailey, Zone Director – Northern Europe, Markem-Imaje said: “Over the past couple of years, we have seen our customers demanding more than just printing a code or applying a label to their products. The emphasis has shifted to ensuring that the data printed is correct, the code or label is readable, and then using this information to ensure quality standards are maintained, data is logged and productivity maintained. For the first time in the UK Markem-Imaje will be demonstrating our CoLOS OEE software, camera systems, and finally, our Systech Solutions software suite, aimed at product serialization, traceability, brand protection, and anti-diversion of products.”

Martin Bailey added: “This, coupled with some exciting product launches make PPMA 2021 a great event and, we are looking forward to seeing new and returning customers in person in September and sharing the latest solutions in our one provider proposition.”

Markem-Imaje’s end-to-end supply chain solutions encompass:

• Messaging – message design, automation, and data management
• Marking & coding – primary / secondary coding and pallet labelling
• Verification & inspection – packaging accuracy, quality assurance and data integrity
• Line control – production control, printer performance and overall equipment effectiveness
• Serialization – full-stack L1-L4 including aggregation and pallet labelling automation
• Authentication – 100% unique, non-additive and data-enriched digital identity
• End-to-end traceability – seamless and secure data exchange ensures end-to-end supply chain tracking
• Connected consumer – real-time authentication, trust and credibility and customer feedback
• Data intelligence – business insight and supply chain visibility

Visit Markem-Imaje at stand C62 for daily live demonstrations and benefit from show specials for printer purchases.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services, and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Following a successful pilot run earlier this year the ongoing webinar series will be free to register and feature practical solutions, insights and thought leadership, navigating the complexities of today’s coding and traceability technology and challenges.

Each webinar will feature leading Markem-Imaje and industry experts. Topics covered this year will include: ‘coding challenges in the cable and wire industry’, ‘laser coding in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics’ and, ‘late-stage customization, traceability and, authentication in the beverage market.’

The next webinar will take place on 21st July and cover: ‘coding challenges in the cable and wire industry’.

Experts examining the evolving challenges in cable and wire coding during the next webinar will include Sylvain Demay, Key Account Manager, Markem-Imaje.

Demay said: “The extrusion industry is experiencing unprecedented change, not least the move to renewables and the need for ever faster networks. This has led to the need for new infrastructure, alongside updating existing systems. During our webinar we’ll continue our conversation with customers to respond to their coding challenges in this high demand environment with products and services which improve line efficiency and line speed.”

Markem-Imaje is a leading supplier of product identification solutions to the cable and wire industry. Responding to coding challenges in the extrusion industry, Markem-Imaje introduced earlier this year a new range of three inks, including two MEK-free options, and quick release brackets – helping to support overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) in the manufacture of wires, cables, pipes, and tubing.

Markem-Imaje’s new range of inks includes their MC469 silver especially designed to code on all extruded products, regardless of material and color. This advancement streamlines inventory and enables manufacturers to run at maximum production with fewer printers and consumables, making production more flexible and convenient – with no more machine changes when switching products on a line.

Markem-Imaje’s new solution for printing on the small surfaces typical in extrusion, including wires which need codes as small as one mm, is the Intelli’Swap principle built into the 9450 E inkjet coder’s connect/disconnect brackets. This means that operators only need one second to reposition the printhead exactly where it is needed.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services, and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information

Confirming Markem-Imaje’s participation in Pack Expo, Mark Boksa, North America Sales Director, Markem-Imaje said: “We understand the challenges our clients face in providing safe and authentic products to their customers. It’s difficult for these manufacturers to protect their customers and their brands when dealing with evolving regulatory requirements and complex global supply chains.” 

Mark Boksa added: “It’s clear that a one-provider solution is highly effective in helping companies overcome these obstacles, which is our aim with our end-to-end supply chain solutions.”

Markem-Imaje’s end-to-end supply chain solutions encompass:

• Messaging – message design, automation, and data management
• Marking & coding – primary / secondary coding and pallet labelling
• Verification & inspection – packaging accuracy, quality assurance and data integrity
• Line control – production control, printer performance and overall equipment effectiveness
• Serialization – full-stack L1-L4 including aggregation and pallet labelling automation
• Authentication – 100% unique, non-additive and data-enriched digital identity
• End-to-end traceability – seamless and secure data exchange ensures end-to-end supply chain tracking
• Connected consumer – real-time authentication, trust and credibility and customer feedback
• Data intelligence – business insight and supply chain visibility

Visit Markem-Imaje at stand C-2232 for daily live demonstrations and benefit from show specials for printer purchases.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services, and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

 

Markem-Imaje, an operating company of Dover Corporation, today announced the acquisition of Blue Bite LLC (“Blue Bite”), a leading provider of innovative workflow software solutions for brand owners and product marketers.

Founded in 2007, Blue Bite is headquartered in New York City and develops robust easy-to-use consumer engagement software tools that enable brands to create custom consumer digital experiences through mobile phones.  With 26 employees, the company has been experiencing rapid growth with multiple leading global fast-moving consumer goods (“FMCG”) brands, leveraging Blue Bite’s innovative solutions. Global brands rely on Blue Bite to easily communicate with their customers, allowing them to gain consumer purchasing insights and rapidly build product loyalty. Blue Bite’s tools use product and consumer information to provide product authentication, traceability, brand storytelling and other value-added functionalities that ultimately drive incremental sales, provide marketers with valuable consumer information and connection, and provide a more convenient and safe experience for consumers. 

The demand for digital consumer engagement is becoming increasingly important for consumer product manufacturers as they see many benefits of interacting with, and selling directly to, their customers online. The acquisition of Blue Bite strengthens Markem-Imaje’s position in software solutions catering to the broad spectrum of needs of FMCG, pharma and industrial manufacturers, including product identification, traceability, brand protection and consumer engagement. 

“Growing our portfolio of software solutions to cater to the growing and more sophisticated needs of our customers around product identification, traceability and authentication is a top strategic priority for Markem-Imaje,” said Vincent Vanderpoel, CEO of Markem-Imaje. “We are excited to integrate Blue Bite into our portfolio of Markem-Imaje and Systech software solutions and provide our global clients the necessary tools to drive efficiency, compliance, brand loyalty and incremental sales. Additionally, we see an exciting opportunity to adapt Blue Bite solutions to industrial applications and plan to collaborate with other Dover operating companies on this initiative.”

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dover, provides end-to-end supply chain solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of industrial marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with proven product identification and traceability software, services and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to optimize coding processes, achieve compliance and protect their brands.

With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we deliver sustainable solutions that empower our customers to build connected and safe supply chains.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

There are many environmental consequences to packaging. Printing codes, such as expiry dates and lot numbers, onto products is no exception. The world’s most common coding method is continuous inkjet (CIJ). Most inks used are MEK-based and release VOCs, precursors to greenhouse gases. As part of a wider sustainability program, Markem-Imaje seeks to shift CIJ coding towards MEK-free inks which can halve these VOCs. Contributing to Reforest’Action efforts by planting 3,000 trees in Peru, one for every case purchased of its EB588 and FB655 inks, is the company’s latest step.

“We are conscious that our business can have knock-on effects on the environment, ” observes Sabri Mourad, CIJ Product Division Director. “As one of the world’s largest coding suppliers, we need to set the right example and drive change by defining a long-term research and development plan to formulate and produce inks for a more sustainable tomorrow.”

Why these inks?
Being multi-purpose, these two inks can code most, and perhaps even all, of a plant’s primary packaging. This makes it easy for many companies to support reforestation, which itself benefits the environment, while reducing their own VOC emissions and cutting waste. MEK-free inks also result in up to 50% fewer additive cartridges to discard.

Why start with Peru? 
The region of San Martin, in Northern Peru and part of the high Amazon, was originally covered with tropical forests and wetlands. Approximately 1.6 million hectares of primary forest have been cut down over the last fifty years.

The trees planted will help recreate forest ecosystems, providing a multitude of invaluable services for the climate, nature and local populations. For example, the area’s eroded biodiversity will be improved by giving butterflies, monkeys, frogs and turtles new shelters, while helping combat global warming. 

Local communities will also benefit from better food security and income. The trees help regulate local temperatures and generate rainfall, improving agricultural yields. They also shelter food crops from too much sun or rain. Locals can pick the fruit of the planted lemon, mango and cocoa trees, while fast-growing species, such as acacia and rubber trees, provide wood and rubber without inhabitants sourcing this from the Amazonian forest. The harvests can be used for personal consumption or local trade.

Part of a wider corporate commitment to sustainable development 
Since its founding, Markem-Imaje continuously adapts its operations to be as efficient as possible. For example, since 2010 it has cut its water consumption by 68%, greenhouse gas emissions by 44% and waste by 12% while improving energy efficiency by 36%.

“Markem-Imaje started its sustainability journey way back in 1997 when pursuing the first ISO14001 certification for its Environmental Management System,” says Michelle Reed, Chief Compliance and Sustainability Officer. “Since then, we are always looking at ways to improve ourselves.”

Click here to read more about Markem-Imaje’s Reforest’Action project, including statistics related to local community and CO₂ benefits, and here to explore Markem-Imaje’s sustainability commitments more generally.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Missing codes on products result in costly shipment rejections or fines, while unclear data impacts safety and brand perception. Ensuring codes will not smear or disappear in hot factories, or rub off in transit, can be difficult on flexible film and foils, both of which are common packaging materials. Hot temperatures, oils and solvents interfere with code adhesion. While high resin ribbons achieve the durability required in these challenging production and/or shipping condtitions, until now coding speeds have been limited to 300-400 mm/s (0.98 - 1.31 ft/s), adversely affecting overall throughput. Printheads have also tended to wear out quickly.

The industries most commonly using high resin TTO printing are food and pharmaceuticals, e.g. for nuts, potato chips and antibacterial wipes.

Faster high resin TTO printing

The advanced design of the SmartDate^® Xtreme Plus printhead means companies can produce crisp, high resin codes at up to 600 mm/s (2 ft/s), nearly twice the speed of the market’s next fastest coder using high resin ribbons. Production throughput no longer needs to be sacrificed in order to ensure high quality, durable codes.

Lower maintenance costs

As compared to other grades of thermal transfer ribbons, the high energy level required for printing with resin reduces the life of a printhead. Considering that many TTO suppliers do not offer printhead warranties, or charge extra for this, maintenance costs can be high. However, given all Markem-Imaje printheads, including the SmartDate^® Xtreme Plus, come with a 6 month, or 40 kilometer (25 miles) warranty, manufacturers can enjoy 60% more trouble-free coding than other comparable options, even in this challenging application.

The printhead can be used in new SmartDate X65 coders or retrofitted into existing SmartDate X65 units.

Read more here>>

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.
Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers, and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.
Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

As in most industries, manufacturers of wires, cables, pipes, and tubing want to improve their productivity, as measured by their overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). OEE is a standard method measuring manufacturing productivity composed of three key performance indicators: availability, performance, and quality. At the same time companies seek to minimize cost and hassle. The inks and brackets launched today enable these objectives.

Availability: One-ink-fits-all
So that codes can be easily read, it is often necessary to use different colored inks on different materials. In this industry, the particularly high cost of downtime means it is most cost-effective to have one printer per ink color. 

The MC469 silver ink can code all extruded products –whatever the color– making it cost and time efficient, by streamlining inventory and enabling manufacturers to run at maximum production with fewer printers and consumables. Inventory management and logistics are simpler, while production is more flexible and convenient – no more machine changes when switching products on a line.

Performance: MEK-free inks for safer coding and easier exporting
MEK-free inks reduce Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions while enhancing employee safety and comfort. Their usage on product coding also simplifies importing and exporting, as MEK-based inks are controlled substances in many countries. 

Until now, however, the use of MEK-free inks has not been feasible: the drying time and adhesion of MEK-free inks was unsuitable for most wires and cables. 

The new MEK-free inks launched today have been proven, in extensive pre-launch customer trials, to deliver the required performance in these, particularly demanding applications. Employees in this sector can now enjoy better working conditions and manufacturers can improve their sustainability credentials. The regulation compliance of these two MIPK-based inks, made of Methyl Isopropyl Ketone instead of MEK, also simplifies paperwork for them.

Two colors are available to cover a wide range of extruded products: the white, EW581, and the yellow, EC582. Additionally, they have the advantage of reducing consumption and waste by up to 40% compared to standard MEK-based consumables used at 20 0C. The savings are even greater at higher temperatures as MEK-free consumables do not evaporate as quickly as MEK-based ones.

Quality: Secure code positioning every time and in 1 second
Codes are often needed to be printed on very tiny surfaces. For example, some wires need codes as small as one mm. If, following maintenance and cleaning, the coder and the printhead are not returned to the right place, codes may miss the desired surface, leading to rework and scrap.

The Intelli’Swap principle built into the 9450 E coder’s connect/disconnect brackets means that operators only need ONE second to reposition the printhead EXACTLY where it belongs. It is so simple they can even do it with one hand. No more fiddling with screws in potentially awkward places to try to put the coder back to the right position.

The above ink and bracket benefits come with those already available with the 9450 E inkjet coder. These include a mistake-proof user interface and up to 3,000* kilometers of cable printing without printhead cleaning. The automatic cleaning system, coupled with Intelli’Jet technology, provides clean, hassle-free start-ups and high-quality codes, always. High contrast, durable codes are delivered at high speeds, including on polyethylene (PE) which is especially challenging in terms of adhesion. Codes produced by this coder and ink combination last even when subjected to rough environmental conditions in the marketplace.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.
Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers, and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.
Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

FMCG manufacturers face high expectations. Consumers want products which are as sustainably made as possible, at a good price, while retailers and distributors are quick to issue fines for poorly coded items which jeopardize traceability, data collection and/or automation. The ink launched today delivers on all these objectives by enabling better performance and sustainability, with no overall cost increase. Paired with the company’s flagship 9450 coder, the EB588 ink sets the new standard for FMCG inkjet coding.  

MEK-based inks generate Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, contributors to greenhouse gases. This new MEK-free alternative, made of Methyl Isopropyl Ketone (MIPK), supports product sustainability by generating 40% fewer VOCs under comparable operating conditions at 20 ⁰C. It also promotes a safer work environment for workers.

Designed for use in Markem-Imaje’s 9450 continuous inkjet (CIJ) coder, one of the market’s leading inkjet printers, the ink also streamlines inventory and reduces waste.

The multi-purpose, black ink codes many different packaging types including metal, glass, cardboard and several types of plastic. Ordering, logistics and stock management are thus easier as there are fewer items to store and oversee.

Furthermore, as MEK-free inks use fewer consumables than MEK-based inks, manufacturers will have 40% fewer bottles and cartridges to throw away.

Waste is further minimized, as is rework, through the ink’s smart consumable management system which enables quick, mistake-free coding. There is no longer any risk of inserting an unsuitable ink which generates a poor-quality code, or worse, seems to code an item, only for the code to disappear hours later, or be easily rubbed off in the marketplace.

All operators need to do is insert the EB588 ink cartridge, something which can be done with the line running to avoid downtime. The coder takes it from there to check and set up parameters automatically, no further human intervention required.  

For even greater efficiency and productivity, all consumable-related operations can be directly monitored on the user interface. Touch screen menus provide access to previous maintenance and production history, including data on availability rates and consumption. An accurate, consumable level display, bolstered by real-time warnings, lets users know the precise quantity of prints remaining, so production time is not lost due to the ink or additive running out.

This is in addition to the marketing and quality-enhancing capabilities already available through the 9450 coder itself. For example, Markem-Imaje is currently the only major supplier to offer built-in promotional coding, serialization and ‘mark & read’ code checking in a CIJ printer. And, with a large graphical printing capacity, QR code printing is easy and efficient. Production sites can thus better meet the demands of brand teams to use complex codes to support a wide range of marketing objectives, all with full confidence in code quality and accuracy.

Even better, the above benefits are available for the same TCO as other comparable MEK-based ink and printer combinations. This enables manufacturers to improve their sustainability credentials without negatively affecting their profitability – a win-win situation for consumers, retailers, distributors, manufacturers and the environment.

 

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.
Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers, and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.
Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Products must be coded with variable data such as best-before-expiry dates, lot numbers, and sometimes even ingredients. Given its ability to mark most surfaces at most speeds, continuous inkjet coding (CIJ) is a popular choice. However, most existing CIJ inks come with a strong smell which can be problematic for workers and can, at times, alter the sensory perception of content within the coded packages.

Alcohol-based and virtually odor-free, the FB655 ink is far more pleasant to use for operators. A further advantage for food manufacturers is the fact the odor does not alter the organoleptic properties of products.

Even better, it comes with financial and environmental advantages. The associated additive consumption with this ink is 50% lower than that of other, more traditionally used inks. And, unlike the previous generation of alcohol-based inks, this one does not require the installation of a pressurization kit or the use of compressed air. In financial terms, the savings are significant: no investment in an accessory and no extra energy consumption in terms of compressed air. 

And, fitting squarely with Markem-Imaje’s policies regarding the responsible production and use of its inks, this consumable meets all existing regulations and directives governing packaging, be they required, or just recommended: REACH, GMP, HACCP, EuPIA, Swiss Ordinance, Nestlé Guidance Note.

Finally, as would be expected from any Markem-Imaje ink, it provides excellent code definition with very clear contours and no smudging, irrespective of the printed material (cardboard packs, aluminum lids, PET, PE, or PP, rigid plastics, and some metals). It can also be used to print easy-to-read Datamatrix or QR codes. It works with all of Markem-Imaje’s continuous inkjet printers.

“Our new FB655 ink helps manufacturers meet food safety, health, and environmental standards, while also meeting efficiency and cost control objectives”, explains Vincent Millot, product marketing manager – consumables, at Markem-Imaje. 

The availability of the ink will vary by market and evolve over time. To enquire about a specific country, please contact Markem-Imaje for the most up-to-date details.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers, and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Inks used to code products can be hazardous to factory workers, end-users and the environment, particularly inexpensive options. To stop low-cost, third party ‘raider’ inks being used in Markem-Imaje coders, and to ensure companies understand the benefits of using the company’s inks, Markem-Imaje developed its “Marking the new generation” campaign. It showed that what was considered acceptable and safe in the past, was now unthinkable, encouraging manufacturers to change their behavior. 

The campaign aimed to increase awareness of Markem-Imaje’s ink safety and sustainability credentials with the goal to stop sales lost to raider inks.  While large, global customers were included, the primary targets were small to medium companies who were less likely to have considered the implications of ink choice on safety, sustainability, compliance and brand reputation. 

The campaign outperformed internal targets and some external benchmarks as well. The company stemmed its raider ink losses among companies of all sizes, and even won a range of a large-scale equipment contracts. For example, one European manufacturer swapped 34 of its existing coders to equipment from Markem-Imaje. 

Disruptive, yet relatable, situations used to capture attention
Ink coding is a mature market with established habits. Raider inks are an attractive way of improving profits. The campaign needed to attract the attention of decision-makers who saw using raider inks as normal and logical, and then encourage them to change.  

By highlighting four previously acceptable behaviors –smoking, no seat belts, littering and pesticides– the campaign sought to persuade manufacturers to go beyond basic compliance in order to meet the needs of a changing marketplace which increasingly expects more in terms of safety and sustainability.

Relatable, consistent imagery depicting the four unacceptable behaviors was used across a range of assets including four mini-animations and a short white paper. The content was distributed through various channels such as social media, emails and retargeting banners.

 A copy of the white paper can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/2ItrQoz.

The animations are viewable via:
Driving without seatbelts - safety message
Smoking on a plane: chemical choice message
Spraying gardens with pesticides - rules message
Leaving rubbish behind  –  sustainability message 

To see other shortlisted candidates, and winners in other categories, click here: https://www.excellence-awards.com/winnerlist/best-of-2020/ 

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

With the growing regulatory demands by governments for proper coding and marking on cooked food products, there is a growing interest in product authenticity and quality assurance. Manufacturers are looking for a highly reliable coding method that can help improve product safety while also fitting with the high throughput, high accuracy demands of their production.

This is especially important in the food industry, where heat-treated ready meals are becoming more popular. A particular need is for a method that can be used on the increasingly popular plastic pouches used for such meals as well as baby food and pet food.

Thermochromic inks that change colour when the treated product reaches the required temperature support this need. While thermochromic inks cannot guarantee that sterilization has actually occurred, they assist manufacturers by providing a good indication that the process has taken place. While there have previously been challenges associated with this form of coding, as discussed below, today’s launch addresses those issues.

Print on all surfaces
Markem-Imaje’s MS596 thermochromic ink can be used to print on both metal cans and plastic film. With excellent adhesion to polyolefin pouches, no pre- or post-treatment of the packaging material is required.

Giving good contrast on the dedicated white printing area, the ink offers a clear color change from black to blue at retort temperature. It has an operating temperature from 5 to 40oC , ensuring it can work effectively in a wide range of environmental conditions.

Used in the company’s 9450 continuous inkjet printer, the ink also contributes to printing reliability. Unlike some earlier generations of thermochromic ink, today’s innnovation will not change color prematurely due to temperature effects from the printer itself, rather than the sterilization process.

The ink also aids maximum production throughput with a drying time of only one second on all materials. An issue with previous generations of thermochromic ink was smearing of the printed code, which could lead to the information becoming illegible. MS596 resists smearing to maintain high coding legibility and is less affected by oil and grease residues or water during the retort process.

Low toxicity
Given this ink can come into contact with food, all raw materials used to create it have been closely chosen in line with the Swiss Ordinance which helps ensure inks are safe to use in such situations.

The ink is formulated and manufactured in accordance with the EuPIA (European Printing Ink Association) “Guideline on printing inks applied to the non-food contact surface of food packaging materials and articles” and complies fully with the EuPIA Exclusion Policy.

It does not feature ingredients dangerous to aquatic life nor does it contain methanol which is known to be highly toxic to the human nervous system. In fact, while other major suppliers still use methanol in some of their new inks, no ink launched by Markem-Imaje within the last 10 years contains methanol. This forms part of the company’s long-standing approach to go beyond bare minimum compliance and consider where regulations are headed, so that its customers are not caught off guard by tightening legislation. The spate of methanol-related hand sanitizer scandals earlier this year suggests this ingredient is likely to face tighter regulations going forward. 

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.

Even the best equipment sometimes needs troubleshooting. Fixing issues fast is vital to ensure production impact is minimized. To that end, users must have quick and accurate support to address problems. Available in English, Chinese, German, Spanish, French, Portuguese and Japanese, and accessible via a single click on the company’s home page, the Markem-Imaje Virtual Assistant (MIVA) is an online support tool. It uses artificial intelligence, which is constantly learning from its day-to-day interactions with customers, to empower printer users to resolve problems themselves, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

As a first line of help, the assistant provides interactive user manuals for all of Markem-Imaje’s key technologies. The manuals are both easy to access and intuitive to use, allowing operators to select printer model and the task or procedure they are trying to perform. The system then suggests potential solutions, supported by easy-to-follow graphical instructions from the user manual.

These are backed up by numerous “do-it-yourself” videos, giving manufacturers direct demonstrations of how to perform procedures.

For more challenging issues, users can go to the advanced self-troubleshooting feature, giving either a description of the problem, such as ‘bad printing’, or entering the fault code shown on the machine user interface.

The advanced troubleshooting engine uses algorithms to choose the most successful solutions to a fault first, presenting the information to the operator in the form of text, pictures and video tutorials.

If the operator is unable to solve the problem, the issue can be escalated to a help desk agent who receives a detailed situation summary enabling them to quickly understand the situation, see what has been tried and identify an alternative solution. This speeds up problem-resolution and, in many cases, avoids the need to send a technician for an on-site repair visit – a particularly important benefit given the current pandemic.

About Markem-Imaje
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US-based Dover Corporation is a trusted world manufacturer of product identification and traceability solutions, offering a full line of reliable and innovative inkjet, thermal transfer, laser, and print and apply label systems.

Markem-Imaje provides global reach to over 50,000 customers with 30 subsidiaries, 6 technology centers, several equipment repair centers and manufacturing plants with the most comprehensive marking and coding portfolio available in the marketplace.

Visit www.markem-imaje.com for further information.