Automation continues to reshape the way printing is done today. One of the most effective methods involves multi-version printing, where a company or distributor may have many locations and a need for variations in printed materials.
“Multi-version printing is proof that print isn’t dead,” said John Glick, senior vice president of business development for Central Florida Press, Orlando, Fla. “It may evolve into some type of electronic format that will enhance instead of replace it, but print is very resourceful and efficient in many ways.”
Glick said casual dining restaurant companies are a good example. They often change high volume menus on a regular basis, not only because of the rotating monthly specials but for a variety of other reasons.
“One restaurant company we work with once had four versions, but now has 50 because there are many factors driving them to have more options. For example, laws governing the sale of alcohol not only change state-by-state but in some cases change county-by-county,” he explained. “Nutrition information requirements can vary as well, in addition to the availability of food products that can’t be offered at some locations due to seasonality, shortages or other issues.”
“Multi-version printing is very effective in many ways besides the positive impact on the bottom line. It allows the customer to vary offers based on economics and requirements by location. This gives them options when negotiating with distributors and manufacturers,” Glick said.
Advances in automation and improved technology makes multi-version printing beneficial, as well as more attractive and profitable for many industries. Central Florida Press has created proprietary automated systems that can create files in a matter of seconds compared to just a few years ago when it would take closer to one hour to generate updates.
“By focusing on version printing as a whole, we can accommodate a customer’s database with the automated production process,” Glick said. “Recently we did a job that required personalization for thousands of calendars. We’ve reduced 90 percent of the time it takes to create the files and made the process more accurate. Combined with our state-of-the-art proofing and printing process, it translates into making it easier for our customers to deliver their product to the market more efficiently.”
For more information, visit Central Florida Press’s website.
