EFI reports strong packaging growth

The number of net new Radius customers doubled year-over-year between 2012 and 2013, EFI stated, with EFI's Radius group witnessing continued momentum since then by working with converters interested in building efficiencies and reducing costs. The continued growth in the Radius installed base comes from converters of all size and types, from smaller, single-plant implementations to large-scale, multi-plant and multinational deployments.

EFI added that its customers are expanding their investment in packaging technology beyond the increase in Radius ERP deployments. While much of the expansion comes from traditional converters bolstering their operations, commercial printing and signage firms are also making strategic purchases to establish profitable packaging operations. In response to the demand, EFI has continued to develop its portfolio to include more best-in-class packaging hardware and software.

EFI's expanded offerings in the packaging market includes corrugated and folding carton packaging applications using the EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro high-speed inkjet press and EFI's new material edge guide (MEG) system, and new, greener flexible packaging and label production capabilities with the launch of the LED inkjet EFI Jetrion 4950LX narrow web press.

Frank Mallozzi, senior vice-president for worldwide sales and marketing at EFI, said: ‘The continued growth and interest EFI is seeing in this market reflects our ongoing commitment to be a valued partner for businesses that want to take advantage of the accelerating opportunities in packaging.

‘We are very proud to work with many of the world's best packaging converters and, as always, we are committed to helping them grow profits, reduce waste and cut costs using the most innovative digital printing and workflow technologies available.’

During the recent EFI Connect conference, Radius' product management team shared initial details on a new version of the Radius ERP software that incorporates technologies EFI has developed or acquired over the past year. Available as of June, EFI Radius version 15.1 offers new features and enhancements, including a mobile CRM module, improved scheduling with EFI's PrintFlow plant optimization software, web-based EFI SmartLinc multi-carrier shipping features and an EFI Radius customer web portal.

‘This is an exciting time for EFI and our customers,’ added David Taylor, general manager of EFI Radius. ‘With our strong track record of smart acquisitions and internal research and development, EFI Radius customers are able to benefit from improvements in our software platform that support increased profits through cost reduction, higher productivity and improved workflow.’