Wide-web Ink Niche

The general ink characteristic that carries the most weight with the wide-web segment, according to 55 percent of respondents, is compatibility with a wide range of substrates.

"Everyone would like one ink to work on all substrates," says Len Walle, marketing director at Flint Ink, "but a universal ink is not available that will provide quality performance on all substrates, thoughsolvent base inks still have the broadest operating window." At the same time, printers should strive for a balanced ink inventory, avoiding a proliferation of custom inks on the floor, he says.