Digital Printing
Digital printing is a modern method of printing using a digital based image, usually a high resolution print ready PDF, to print directly onto a wide range of paper stocks and substrates.
Initially digital print was used on short run print jobs. Electronic artwork files are created and turned into a PDF which is ready for print. These PDF files are then printed using high volume laser or inkjet digital printing presses. Our Kodak Nexpress SE2500 is a high volume laser digital press so it uses an electrophotographic process.
Advantages of Digital Printing
Digital print has grown significantly over the past five years as it offers some distinct advantages over traditional printing techniques – in certain areas.
High Quality Printing
Digital print is becoming increasingly popular due to the recent advancements made in print technology. The print quality has improved on digital printing and it is now comparable with the high quality print from traditional offset lithographic printing.
Fast Print Turnaround Times
Despite a higher cost per page than lithographic printing, the set up and turnaround times on digital print can be quicker. This is particularly true with shorter print runs.
Reduced Printing Costs
Digital printing eliminates many of the elements or processes required in traditional print methods, such as time consuming make readies and the need for printing plates.
InSite Integrated Print Workflow
At Lemon Press our digital printing service offers an integrated workflow using Kodak InSite software. This print technology means that clients can login online and place their artwork directly into the workflow. Clients receive a PDF proof for sign off and then, once approved, the job moves into the automated workflow.
Variable Data
A key area that has led to sustained investment and development of digital printing is the use of variable data. This is where digital has a real advantage over traditional print methods, as it is able to print up to 2500 B3 sheets per hour, with every sheet being different, as the images and text is transferred from the PDF file, directly to the sheet, without the use of printing plates.
Personalised Printing
Personalised mailings with contact details, customer name and even images and copy based on demographic profile are achievable. Variable data capability has revolutionised marketing and its use is commonplace in our every day lives. Until digital printing improved, the capability to change the image or information with each impression using variable data was a difficult and expensive process.
Print on Demand Service
Print on Demand is a term that is widely used in the creative and print industry now. The digital printing technology available now means that clients can login remotely and view their print assets in an online library.
Print assets refers to items such as brochures, catalogues and stationery which are available to order online and move directly into the print workflow.
Artwork files can be reviewed or amended and new designs uploaded and made available. This technology is very useful for multi-site businesses or larger organisations. Please ask us if you would like more information about this service.
Competitive Pricing
The savings in plate making consumables, paper costs due to less waste, labour costs and the introduction of digital workflows mean that digital printing is here to stay.
Digital printing can also be much more competitive against traditional offset printing at larger volumes now. There is much more of a crossover and blurring of the lines where digital print ends and litho printing starts. There is a view that digital will eventually be able match offset printing’s ability to produce large print runs at a low price.
Why choose digital printing?
Digital print offers short turnaround times, economical short run printing, personalisation, improved colour consistency and more control for our customers.
A Great Partnership
At Lemon Press we have decided to embrace both printing technologies, celebrate and combine their strengths to create a great partnership – digital and litho printing together.
We still continue to offer our excellent offset lithographic printing alongside our new digital printing capabilities. This gives our customers the opportunity to source all their printing from one supplier if they would prefer.
Our aim is to ensure we continue to offer the best printing service to customers in Birmingham, the Midlands and across the UK.
If you are interested in finding out more about digital printing please contact your Lemon Press sales representative or call us on 01527 510262.
Whatever your print requirements, the Lemon Press can promise the same high levels of attention and professional care for every job placed with us.
Mark Fearon
Managing Director
