Bottom Line Coexistence: Combining Flexo and Digital for Value, Profitability

"We see fewer orders for a year-long supply of labels," affirms Heinl. "Now that volume might be spread over five orders throughout the year." This gives brand owners the ability to change colors or information without throwing away large quantities of labels that became obsolete.

Underscoring this are customers' shifting expectations. "We get RFQs where having 13-to 20-inch digital presses is a specific requirement," says Smith. "Or there's a check box for digital presses in a required equipment list. If we can't check that box we aren't eligible to quote on a job."