Vollherbst signs beta agreement for EcoLeaf

Vollherbst Druck has invested in an EcoLeaf unit from A B Graphic International utilizing an innovative metallization technology developed by Actega Metal Print.

Vollherbst Druck has invested in an EcoLeaf unit from A B Graphic International utilizing an innovative metallization technology developed by Actega Metal Print.

Marking the first EcoLeaf order to be booked by Actega Metal Print’s recently announced global commercial partner ABG, also representing the first joint beta site between both parties, the metallization unit is expected to be installed in September 2020 on Vollherbst’s existing A B Graphic Digicon Series 3 converting machine.

The introduction of EcoLeaf will enable the company to offer an alternative to traditional hot foil for a large and growing percentage of its jobs, significantly improving its sustainability credentials. In addition, the new technology will allow Vollherbst to customize the metallic colors it can offer, as well as add new applications for its metallized embellishments.

‘EcoLeaf’s sustainability benefits were the primary reason for the order,’ commented Matthias Vollherbst, managing director of Vollherbst Druck. ‘We had been given a demo of the core technology at drupa 2016, and we immediately saw great potential in this innovation. When Actega acquired Metallography from Landa, we soon started to collaborate and test the technology together.

‘Whereas hot foil has its limitations, EcoLeaf allows us to quickly and flexibly metallize without waiting for foil blocks or embossing tools, and the quality is great. What’s more, the technology is clearly geared to allow large metallized surface areas in the future, which hot foil can’t easily handle, so in time, it presents another opportunity for us to expand our range of embellishment options. However, with its immediate benefits, we anticipate increased possibilities for brand owners and swift customer take-up.’

Volherbst Druck specializes in highly refined labels for wines and spirits, and currently exports 40 percent of its products to France, South Africa and Switzerland.

‘Key to our business is providing answers to our customers’ problems,’ added Matthias Volherbst. ‘For most, the challenge is in convincing the consumer to take their product from the shelf, and often, to also pay a little more for it. So, our customers’ labels need to work harder than ever. Because of this, EcoLeaf comes at the perfect time. Clients we’ve spoken to are already excited to explore its creative potential and reap the on-shelf benefits.’

Commenting on its first EcoLeaf order, Matt Burton, sales director for AB Graphic International, said: ‘We’ve known Matthias and his team for many years now. Vollherbst is a lighthouse customer for us, representing everything that’s great about our industry and a perfect ambassador for our products. Given EcoLeaf’s unique credentials, we expect this to be the first of many orders to come.’

‘We are also thrilled to add Vollherbst to our family of customers,’ added Jan Franz Allerkamp, managing director of Actega Metal Print. ‘They are a very progressive business, and we believe, ideally placed to maximize our technology. We’re excited to see how they leverage EcoLeaf to push the boundaries of label design.’

You can read more about the EcoLeaf technology in Issue 3 of Labels & Labeling.