On the Straight and Narrow-web

Though no one disputes the performance of, and market potential for, combination work in narrow-web, suppliers are quick to testify to the significance of straight flexo.

Kim Tanis, VP/North American sales for Allied Gear/Gi Due USA, believes non-combination printing is on the rise: "The evidence is manufacturers have come out with 'plain-vanilla' presses." Tanis credits the improved quality of flexo for its increased usage, and cites developments in water-based inks and ceramic anilox rolls as chief factors in flexo's growing success.