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SA Litho invests in the first FA-26 on the African continent

Akanksha Meena — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 09:25:30 +0000

South African label and packaging converter, SA Litho, has invested in Nilpeter’s FA-26, the first of its kind to be installed on the African continent.

SA Litho has a long-standing partnership with Nilpeter, having utilized several of its printing presses over the years, including the trusted FA Asterix. The decision to invest in the FA-26 shows the converter’s dedication to staying innovative, meeting the growing demand for broader printing, and giving its customers new opportunities to create unique products.

Dawrian Salies, general manager at SA Litho, highlighted the company’s strategy behind this investment: ‘We see the FA-26 as an opportunity to stay ahead of the curve, offering innovative solutions that exceed our customers’ expectations. The growing demand for broader printing capabilities, particularly in the wine and spirits, food, and pharma markets, played a key role in this decision. The FA-26 allows us to do things that even our customers haven’t thought of yet – and that’s where we want to be.’

With a robust local support network through Nilpeter’s CSM team in South Africa, SA Litho is well-positioned to maximize the potential of their new FA-26.

Del Wiggill from CSM machine sales and Nilpeter’s agent in South Africa, added: ‘We are thrilled about this order, which underscores the strong partnership we’ve built with SA Litho over the years. The FA-26 will bring immense value to their operations and, most importantly, to their customers. It’s a fantastic solution for a forward-thinking company like SA Litho.’

Commenting on the investment, Martin Fjordlund Teilberg, global marketing manager at Nilpeter, said: ‘It is, of course, a great pleasure to see SA Litho – a long-term partner of Nilpeter – take this important step and become the first on the African continent to invest in an FA-26. This move aligns perfectly with a growing trend we’re seeing across the market, as more printers expand their capabilities with broader presses. And that is exactly why it makes perfect sense for us to bring it to Labelexpo Europe 2025 in Barcelona next week. We are very much looking forward to it.’

The installation and training of the new FA-26 at SA Litho is currently underway and will soon be ready for production.

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SA Litho invests in the first FA-26 on the African continent

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South African converter adds the new press to serve growing wine and spirits, food, and pharma markets.

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South African converter adds the new press to serve growing wine and spirits, food, and pharma markets.

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Smart labels transform Africa’s packaging landscape

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:16:06 +0000

Interactive technology 03 September 2025

Smart labels transform Africa’s packaging landscape

Smart label technology is gaining ground in Africa, offering new opportunities for supply chain transparency, product authentication and engagement.

Smart label technology is gaining ground in Africa, offering new opportunities for supply chain transparency, product authentication and consumer engagement.

In Africa’s evolving packaging sector, smart labels are at the forefront of innovation, merging technology with logistics, security and consumer engagement.

Warren Pietersen, head of operations at Lebone Paarl Labels, based in Paarl, South Africa, underscores the growing adoption of RFID technology.

‘RFID is gaining traction, but in some sectors, the cost and application of ID tags remain challenges,’ he admits. While the technology offers immense benefits, the extra cost is usually a deterrent.’

Despite this, smart labels are proving invaluable for supply chain management. By embedding unique data on each label, brands can monitor shipments, minimize losses and ensure compliance. Pietersen notes that ‘variable smart labels simplify the tracking process, reducing errors and supporting sustainability goals by cutting unnecessary waste.’

At Rotolabel, a label converter in Cape Town, South Africa, the emphasis is on tailored smart label technology. Managing executive Wicus Maritz highlights the practical benefits: ‘Track-and-trace capabilities provide visibility throughout the supply chain, improving route efficiency and reducing wastage.’

He also points to the role of QR codes and NFC technology in enabling instant inventory checks, ensuring optimal stock levels, particularly in cold chain logistics.

He says the local demand for RFID is still emerging, which makes justifying the cost for small quantity orders challenging.

‘As the demand grows, we anticipate a steady decrease in RFID unit prices, ultimately making this transformative technology more accessible to businesses across all sectors,’ Maritz notes.

Battling counterfeits with intelligence

The rise of counterfeit goods is a persistent threat to Africa’s manufacturing and retail industries. Smart labels are stepping up as digital watchdogs, with companies like German-based Vollherbst Labels integrating RFID, NFC and blockchain technologies to safeguard authenticity. Vollherbst, a global supplier of label materials, has made its mark in South Africa’s label market by offering innovative technology in the label and packaging sector.

‘Invisible codes or embedded chips enable real-time verification, alerting both brands and consumers to potential counterfeits, an essential feature in industries such as wine and spirits,’ explains Oliver Jung, head of innovation and business development at Vollherbst. He notes that cryptographically serialized QR codes and RFID inlays allow brands to track products’ journey, location and storage conditions, ensuring optimal handling.

One successful implementation has been the AR-enabled labels for South African wine and spirits brand KWV’s Cathedral Cellar.

‘Consumers gain instant access to product information, promotions and immersive brand stories simply by scanning a label,’ Jung adds. Beyond brand engagement, smart labels offer integrated security measures, with blockchain creating immutable product histories that reinforce consumer trust.

Beyond authentication

As e-commerce reshapes Africa’s retail landscape, smart labels are bridging the gap between physical products and digital experiences. By embedding QR codes, NFC tags and augmented reality (AR) elements, brands can provide interactive content, product stories and loyalty programs, fostering stronger consumer connections.

‘Smart labels are redefining how consumers interact with products. They’re more than just a tag — they provide a personalized experience that makes consumers feel connected to the brand story,’ says Derek Dlugosh-Ostap, owner of Pack-Smart Inc, based in the US. His company’s Delta-X Global software suite enhances traceability and transparency, enabling brands to monitor products from production to delivery.

Moreover, smart labels ensure that only authentic goods reach consumers. ‘Consumers want confidence that what they’re buying is legitimate. Smart labels offer this verification, which is especially crucial for high-value items like electronics, pharmaceuticals and luxury goods,’ Dlugosh-Ostap explains.

Proactive monitoring

Smart labels aren’t just about engagement, they’re transforming food and pharmaceutical safety. Embedded sensors now monitor temperature, humidity and expiration dates, ensuring perishable goods remain within safe parameters throughout the supply chain.

‘For us, smart labels are about being proactive,’ says Dlugosh-Ostap. ‘Whether it’s monitoring product shelf life or alerting customers about shipping delays, these labels enable us to stay ahead of the game.’

Industries reliant on strict storage conditions, such as healthcare and agriculture, particularly benefit from these innovations. Using time-temperature indicators and GPS-enabled tracking, brands can preemptively address logistical disruptions, preserving product integrity and consumer safety.

Anton Pretorius is also editor of Packaging & Print Media (PPM), a publication that covers the commercial print and packaging sectors. Click here to read more of his work.

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Avery Dennison promotes Rodriguez to lead EMENA materials division

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 22:54:58 +0000

Avery Dennison has promoted Mariana Rodriguez to vice president and general manager for the materials group in EMENA as the global materials science company positions itself to capitalize on growth opportunities across the region.

Rodriguez will implement growth strategies for the EMENA division, meet short and long-term business objectives and identify new revenue streams in her new role, according to the company.

'Avery Dennison sees huge potential for growth in the EMENA region, and we are positioned to capitalize on opportunities here because we have the knowledge, experience, equipment and spirit of innovation needed to succeed,' Rodriguez commented.

The executive highlighted the company's upcoming presence at Labelexpo 2025 in Barcelona, where it will showcase products that 'drive circularity, enable traceability and enhance consumer experiences.'

Rodriguez brings nearly two decades of experience with Avery Dennison, having joined the company in 2006. She has held leadership positions across multiple materials group regions, spanning label and packaging materials, graphics and performance tapes businesses.

Her expertise covers supply chain, procurement, marketing and general management functions. Most recently, she served as vice president and general manager of performance tapes in Europe and vice president and general manager of graphic materials in North America.

'Materials group EMENA is known for its materials science expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction,' Rodriguez noted. 'I will be leveraging our talented teams' collective strength to achieve our goals for sustainable growth and profitability, while continuously improving our customer experience and collaborating together to innovate.'

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Avery Dennison promotes Rodriguez to lead EMENA materials division

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The company veteran takes charge of growth strategies across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.

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Java Print aligns with Rotocon for future growth

Adyasha Sinha — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 03:21:13 +0000

Conventional printing 01 September 2025

Java Print aligns with Rotocon for future growth

Find out how Java Print, a powerhouse in South Africa’s label sector, is taking the lead with a new Chrome RFP 450 LED press.

Founded in 2006, Johannesburg-based Java Print has carved out a reputation as a leading supplier of self-adhesive labels, sleeves, lidding, wrap-arounds, tags and sachets in South Africa. With customers spanning the food, pharmaceutical, chemical and FMCG sectors, including retail giants Woolworths Foods in South Africa and Marks and Spencer in the UK, the company found itself nearing full capacity and urgently needing a technological upgrade.

Enter the Chrome RFP 450 LED from Rotocon.

‘We were operating at the limits of our capacity, but we also saw a critical need to modernize our machinery,’ says Mark Groves, Java Print’s managing director. ‘The Chrome press was the perfect solution. Its speed, precision and efficiency are unlike anything we’ve worked with before.’

Java Print aims to maintain its position at the cutting edge of the South African label printing industry, ensuring faster turnaround times, superior quality and an undeniable competitive edge.

Chrome of the crop
Java Print’s move to invest in the Chrome RFP 450 LED was more than just a business decision; it was a calculated bet on the future of label production. Trusting his instincts, Groves made the purchase sight unseen.

‘The decision took time, but I can say without hesitation that this press has exceeded every expectation,’ he says.

The results speak for themselves. A recent project for Oasis Water’s sparkling water range tested one of the biggest challenges in flexographic printing: achieving flawless reversed text in CMYK colors.

‘The Oasis logo’s teardrop was reversed out of multiple colors, and the registration was impeccable. At speeds of up to 150m/ min, the Chrome press held perfect stability, with no visible movement,’ says Groves.

The Chrome RFP 450 LED is engineered for peak performance. This 8-color press features full LED curing, a short web path for optimal material usage, and an advanced delam/relam unit on a movable rail, enhancing its versatility.

“In a country grappling with energy challenges, the Chrome’s efficiency is a game-changer.”

A cold foiling station allows for premium embellishments, while a crossover unit enables the production of peel-and-read labels, expanding Java Print’s capabilities into multilayer applications.

Dual servo drives on each print station ensure registration stability, while a Bosch Rexroth drive package synchronizes movements to eliminate material stretch or misalignment.

Adding another layer of precision, the Erhardt+Leimer inspection system provides real-time quality control, ensuring only flawless labels leave the production line.

Beyond its speed and precision, the Chrome press is a sustainability powerhouse.

Equipped with LED curing lamps that consume 70 percent less electricity than traditional mercury lamps, it dramatically reduces Java Print’s energy footprint.

Unlike mercury-based systems, which require a 30-minute warm-up time, LED technology offers instant readiness, cutting waste, minimizing downtime and ensuring a seamless production flow. ‘In a country grappling with energy challenges, Chrome’s efficiency is a game-changer,’ Groves notes.

Working with Rotocon
While cutting-edge technology is crucial, equally vital is the support behind it. Rotocon’s service was a defining factor in its investment decision for Java Print.

‘When you’re buying a machine of this caliber, you need a supplier that stands behind their product,’ says Groves. The team at Rotocon has been phenomenal. No matter the issue, big or small, it provides immediate support. That’s what sets Rotocon apart.’

Java Print’s collaboration with Rotocon extends beyond press technology. The company also sources its rotary and flexible dies and anilox rollers from Rotocon, ensuring consistency across its production line.

‘We needed dies urgently, and Rotocon delivered within 24 hours. That kind of service is invaluable,’ Groves adds.

Rotocon director Patrick Aengenvoort echoes the sentiment: ‘We don’t just install machines, we build long-term partnerships. From operator training to technical support, we ensure our customers maximize their investment. Seeing Java Print thrive with the Chrome RFP 450 LED is a testament to that commitment.’

With the Chrome RFP 450 LED now fully operational, Java Print is poised to set new benchmarks in print quality, efficiency and sustainability.

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Flint Group names Thunderbolt exclusive offset distributor for southern Africa

Piotr Wnuk — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 21:54:05 +0000

Flint Group has appointed Thunderbolt Offset Printing as the exclusive distributor for its offset packaging portfolio across South Africa and neighboring countries, marking a significant step in strengthening service delivery and customer support in the region.

The strategic partnership brings together Flint Group with Thunderbolt, a well-established provider of printing technology and consumables across Southern Africa, founded in 1999, that focuses on the evolving needs of commercial and packaging printers in the region.

The appointment reaffirms Flint Group's focus on providing value, product quality and responsiveness to the offset print market by joining forces with a trusted industry name that has deep customer relationships.

'We are excited about this new chapter and confident that our customers will continue to receive the highest standards of service and product excellence. Thunderbolt's proven track record and customer-centric mindset make them the ideal partner to drive growth and innovation in the offset segment across South Africa,' said Heiner Klokkers, CEO and president of Flint Group Packaging Inks Europe.

Gerry Baker, CEO of Thunderbolt, added: 'We are delighted that Flint Group has selected us as their partner to introduce a dynamic new route to the Southern African market. The complementary product portfolios of both companies, combined with a shared customer base, make this collaboration a natural fit. We are confident that this partnership will deliver mutual value to Flint Group and its customers.'

The portfolio covered by Thunderbolt includes Flint Group's brands such as Day, Varn and K+E, all of which will now be distributed and supported by Thunderbolt's team.

'This partnership ensures continuity, availability and technical excellence for printers throughout Southern Africa, reinforcing Flint Group's long-standing commitment to the region's print and packaging industry,' concluded Klokkers.

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Flint Group names Thunderbolt exclusive offset distributor for Africa

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Thunderbolt Offset Printing to distribute offset packaging products across South Africa and neighboring countries.

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Mondi becomes first Cradle to Cradle certified company in South Africa

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 23:18:52 +0000

Mondi has become the first South African company to receive Cradle to Cradle Certified certification at the Bronze level for its uncoated fine paper portfolio, including office paper and reels, produced at its Merebank mill.

The global leader in sustainable packaging and paper achieved certification for products including Rotatrim, its premium multifunctional office paper brand, as well as uncoated wood-free reels such as Constat, Envapost and Script. The Cradle to Cradle Certified program is a globally recognized multi-attribute certification that verifies products are designed and manufactured in a circular economy to maximize health and wellbeing for both people and the planet.

'This important sustainability milestone reflects our ongoing efforts to deliver circular-driven approaches and contributes to the Group's ambitious Mondi Action Plan 2030 sustainability commitments,' said Donovan Naidoo, operations director at Mondi Merebank. 'It also reinforces the trust our customers place in Mondi to reliably meet their evolving sustainability requirements with certified, high-quality paper products.'

The Full Scope certification encompasses all aspects, from sourcing to production, and certifies that products are manufactured and used in accordance with circular economy principles. The program assesses five categories of sustainability performance: Material Health, Product Circularity, Clean Air and Climate Protection, Water and Soil Stewardship, and Social Fairness.

Mondi's achievement marks a significant step toward adopting circular economy principles in South African paper production. The certified products demonstrate the company's commitment to circularity, equitable production and environmental stewardship in the region.

The Rotatrim brand has recently launched a new look to highlight its commitment to local design and improved product performance, alongside its certification achievement.

Mondi's uncoated fine paper mill brand portfolio, produced in Slovakia and Austria, was also the first in Europe to receive Cradle to Cradle Certified certification, demonstrating the company's global leadership in sustainable paper production across multiple regions.

The certification milestone supports Mondi's MAP2030 sustainability commitments and positions the company to meet the growing demand of customers for certified, environmentally responsible paper products in the South African market.

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Mondi becomes first Cradle to Cradle certified company in South Africa

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Paper giant achieves milestone sustainability certification for uncoated fine paper portfolio.

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Paper giant achieves milestone sustainability certification for uncoated fine paper portfolio.

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VR Print installs Nilpeter FA-17

Adyasha Sinha — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:08:51 +0000

Durban-headquartered VR Print has invested in Nilpeter's FA-17. With an eye on expanding into Sub-Saharan Africa and a commitment to technical excellence, VR Print has installed the Nilpeter machine. The company aims to strengthen its capabilities and deliver high-end, compliant labels to emerging markets across the African continent.

With over 25 years of experience specializing in premium labels for highly regulated industries, including agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, animal health, and petroleum, VR Print is a key player in the South African label market. The company operates from a single, centralized facility with regional sales offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

As demand for premium and regulation-compliant packaging increases in East and West Africa, VR Print is positioning itself at the forefront of this development – not only by offering complex label constructions, such as booklet and peel-and-read labels but also by investing in the technology required to produce them at scale.

'We see incredible potential in Sub-Saharan Africa,' said Hilton Van Rensburg, managing director of VR Print. 'But to grow sustainably, we need the right partners. That’s why Nilpeter is so important – they understand our market, our constraints, and our ambitions.'

At the heart of VR Print’s current operation is the Nilpeter FA-17 – an automated, multi-substrate flexo press tailored for flexibility, speed and repeatability. With dual LED and mercury curing options, the FA-17 has enabled VR Print to accelerate the production of multi-layer labels and easily navigate a wide range of ink and substrate combinations.

'The FA-17 press offers print quality that’s as sharp and consistent as any digital print, but with the robustness and speed needed for flexo,' Hilton Van Rensburg explained. 'It’s a workhorse, and it’s helped us cut down makeready time, reduce waste, and train new operators faster than ever.'

Operator training is often a hurdle in expanding regions where flexo expertise may be limited. VR Print has overcome this by leveraging the intuitive design of the FA-17, training staff with no prior flexo experience in just a matter of weeks.

Thomas Andersen, area sales manager at Nilpeter, noted: 'We built the FA-Line not only to perform but to be operator-friendly. VR Print has shown how quickly and effectively it can be integrated into a business and a market with strong growth ambitions.'

What sets the collaboration apart is the shared philosophy. Both companies are deeply customer-centric, future-focused, and committed to long-term progress.

'Nilpeter isn’t just a supplier,' said Hilton Van Rensburg. 'They’re a partner. Their team listens, challenges us in the right ways, and supports us consistently – not just when there’s a problem to fix, but to help us grow.'

That commitment includes proactive support, operator engagement, and ongoing dialogue to ensure the investment remains future-proof. VR Print is already preparing to upgrade with a variable data print bar and is working with extended color gamut printing to respond to shifting client expectations.

Looking ahead, VR Print is laying the groundwork for joint ventures and satellite production in key markets, including Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia. The goal is to provide agile and sustainable labeling options that meet stringent regulatory requirements while maintaining brand integrity.

'With more local manufacturing and tighter regulatory controls, there’s huge potential,' Hilton Van Rensburg concluded. 'Our partnership with Nilpeter puts us in a position to lead – with speed, quality, and confidence.'

VR Print and Nilpeter also share a strong belief in the opportunities emerging across the African continent. Especially in Southern and Sub-Saharan Africa, both companies see clear signs of growth and development in the label and packaging industry.

Nilpeter has outlined a dedicated strategy for 2025 and beyond, with a packed exhibition calendar and increased local presence, including key events in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. This effort reflects a long-term commitment to the region – not just in terms of business but also in building close partnerships and delivering technology that makes a meaningful difference.

In South Africa, Nilpeter’s longstanding partner, CSM, plays a crucial role – not only in supporting key customers such as VR Print but also in expanding Nilpeter’s presence throughout the region.

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VR Print installs Nilpeter FA-17

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With an eye on expanding into Sub-Saharan Africa and strengthening its capabilities, VR Print has invested in Nilpeter.

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Label & Litho invests in a Nilpeter FB-14

Adyasha Sinha — Mon, 19 May 2025 09:41:54 +0000

South African label converter Label & Litho has invested in a Nilpeter FB-14, marking the first installation of its kind in the country. The investment underlines Label & Litho’s continued commitment to innovation and Nilpeter’s growing presence on the African continent.

The FB-14 is Nilpeter’s latest addition to its renowned FB line of flexo presses. It is designed to deliver high-quality print in a compact footprint, strongly focusing on automation, quality and cost-effective production.

The sale and successful coordination of the project was made possible by CSM, Nilpeter’s long-standing local partner in South Africa, who continues to play a key role in supporting Nilpeter customers throughout the region.

'It is always a special moment to confirm a new press order with Label & Litho. As a long-standing and loyal Nilpeter customer, our relationship goes far beyond business–it’s built on mutual trust, respect and shared values. I’ve had the honor of working with multiple generations of the family behind the company, and seeing our collaboration continue with the next generation fills me with great pride. With the new FB line, Label & Litho is once again making a strong statement in the South African market – and we are proud to be part of their journey forward,' said Jesper Jørgensen, global sales manager at Nilpeter.

Label & Litho will use the new FB-14 to produce a wide range of pressure-sensitive labels, wraparound labels and tags for industries such as food and beverage, household care, health and beauty, and industrial applications. The new press enhances its capabilities in delivering customized, high-quality labels with short lead times.

A third-generation family business, Label & Litho traces its roots back to the early 1960s. The company, as it is known today, was formed in 1996, when the Smit brothers merged their printing ventures, Esmar Printers and Akasia Rekenaarvorms en Ettikette. From its base in Rosslyn, Pretoria, the company serves customers across South Africa with flexographic, lithographic and digital printing services.

Dedicated to customization, quality and personal service, Label & Litho is known for printing customers’ imaginations and delivering tailored solutions that match unique requirements. The company is a level 2 BEE-certified business committed to sustainable growth and employee empowerment.

The FB-14 installation follows Nilpeter’s recent increased focus on the African market, highlighted by the company’s participation at Propak Africa in Johannesburg earlier this year. The press order with Labels & Litho confirms Nilpeter’s local relevance and its ambition to support the next generation of printers across the continent.

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Label & Litho invests in a Nilpeter FB-14

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Nilpeter’s long-standing local partner in South Africa, CSM, enabled the installation.

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Nilpeter’s long-standing local partner in South Africa, CSM, enabled the installation.

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