Fortis invests in two Lombardi Synchroline presses

Fortis previously (before the Covid-19 pandemic) purchased a Lombardi Digistar fully modular digital finisher. As part of the sourcing process for the Digistar system, Ken Pizzuco, chief supply chain officer for Fortis, visited the company in Italy for live demonstrations of the finishing equipment and flexo presses. The converter installed the digital finisher for embellished craft wine and spirit labels.   

 

The company needed two new flexo presses to meet growing demand. It conducted a thorough review of products from several flexo press manufacturers in the mid-web category. In addition to productivity, price and delivery timeframe, key criteria included reliability, given that the equipment is expected to run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

 

Pizzuco said: ‘While the Synchroline system was a little more expensive than some traditional non-servo press options, the printing speed will provide a greater long-term return on investment. The operators also appreciate the lower profile for enhanced ergonomics, simple web paths and user-friendly operation.’   

 

Lombardi added that most competitive equipment uses expensive vision control systems that add cost and increase preventive maintenance, the company accomplishes the same objective using its proprietary software.    

 

‘The secret of our success is that with our expanded geographic footprint, we are close to our customers. We work like a “mom and pop” shop but with the benefits of scale. We’re very nimble and customer-centric, and our suppliers need to be nimble, too. I enjoyed working directly with decision makers at Lombardi and Matik. They are technically knowledgeable and responsive. Receiving answers quickly cut months off the design and purchasing process,’ Pizzuco added.   

 

Equipped with GEW LeoLED UV curing systems, the Lombardi Synchroline flexo presses can print on a range of materials including BOPP, PVC, PE, PET, paper, adhesive paper, paired materials and cardboard. Synchroline has a fully automatic electronic preregistration system.   

 

Founded in 1978, Fortis provides pressure-sensitive labels as well as extended content and booklet labels, flexible packaging, shrink sleeves, specialty cartons and applicators. The company supplies its products to the food, nutraceutical, health and beauty, automotive, beverage, wine and spirits, cannabis, industrial and pet care markets. It employs more than 900 people, operating multiple manufacturing facilities with distribution capabilities in 13 states nationwide.