John Dickinson Stationery used Print UK last week to unveil a new digital watermark smart technology for envelopes, powered by the MediaBridge software from US company Digimarc.

Mark Beaumont-Thomas, product group manager for envelopes, said that when read by a webcam or scanner, the signal directs users straight through to a specific web page.

John Dickinson has become the first UK and European supplier of the technology for use in direct mail applications.

"It overcomes navigation aggravation on web pages
and allows the user to explore the interactiveness of the web," said Beaumont-Thomas.

A "D" symbol located on envelopes denotes that the product is internet-enabled.

John Dickinson has used the Digimarc on all its Basildon Bond products, which take the user through to a web page providing information on adding value to letter writing.

The Digimarc can also be used on advertisements, packaging applications such as CDs, and catalogues.

The message link can also be changed to enable information to be updated each time the user accesses the appropriate web page.

"It ensures that there is a link between new technology, such as the web, and paper, proving the two can work together," said Beaumont-Thomas.

John Dickinson Stationery showed Digimarc on the PaperCom Europe stand at Print UK.