A B Graphic maintains strong sales growth

ABG has maintained momentum through a mix of planned investments and prioritizing innovation - both seen as key to continuing its growth track.  

 

In adhering to an aggressive five-year strategic plan, the last 12 months has seen ABG undertake a several key initiatives. The latest initiative includes the creation of a new digital manufacturing hub at its German site to manufacture its DigiJet digital embellishment module. The technology, which is being marketed globally, provides digital embellishment techniques without tooling.  

 

The company has also expanded its offering by adding shrink sleeve machines to its portfolio. Previously forming part of Enprom’s equipment portfolio – Enprom being acquired by ABG in 2019 – the modular range covers seaming, doctoring and cutting shrink sleeve technology and provides ABG with opportunities to enter into new market segments.  

 

With a record number of orders placed in 2020, ABG has launched the next evolution of its DigiLase digital laser cutting machine, DigiLase 4.0. The latest refinements include new individual piece options and faster speeds, combined with its laser cutting technology.   

 

Elsewhere, a strategic partnership with Actega Metal Print in May 2020 will see ABG handle sales and service of the new EcoLeaf metallization technology in the EU and the UK. Official product launch is scheduled for the end of 2021.  

 

Integrated inline on finishing equipment, analog or digital printing presses, EcoLeaf combines a printed trigger image and a metallization unit that applies only the precise and required amount of metal. It replaces the use of hot and cold foil rolls and their subsequent high impact on waste, as well as reduces the cost of metallic embellishments, the company said. 

 

A major focus of ABG’s forward planning is based on its investment in people. The company is currently in the middle of large-scale recruitment drive, aiming to fill several positions globally. The scale of this ambition was illustrated by Richard Knight, ABG’s CEO, who said: ‘Our people are at the core of our success and we are especially grateful for their considerable efforts and dedication shown over the last 18 months. We are now in position to welcome numerous new employees across all areas of the business, from design to sales. As we are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing the very best people at ABG, this recruitment drive will enable us to keep innovating and leading the print finishing market.’ 

 

In maintaining the company’s strong sales performance, the family-owned business retains its leadership structure for the foreseeable future, with the exception of Mike Burton, ABG’s director, who retired in September 2021, but remains on the board of directors.