With shorter runs, faster turnarounds, growing demand for print-on-demand and variable-data applications, digital has truly come of age. The latest presses are producing print of a standard that can compete with litho and the range of applications for which digital presses are being used is also expanding: from its origins in producing books, direct mail and greetings cards, it now also encompasses labels and packaging.
This versatility means that the paper used for digital print must be capable of fulfilling many different requirements. As a result, over the past few years, manufacturers have spent a great deal of time developing and promoting digital papers.
For printers, digital holds a number of attractions. "Digital print is a valuable tool, with a lower cost-per-sheet for short runs and the ability to turn documents around in reduced timeframes," according to Angela De Vorchik, operational marketing manager at Arjowiggins Graphic.
However, paper manufacturers are under pressure to develop more sustainable products; striking a balance between performance and sustainability to meet customer demand. Francis Harrington, managing director at Modern Paper Technology, explains: "We have seen a slight decline in demand for FSC- or PEFC-accredited litho materials simply due to cost. However, this has not been the case for our digital papers. Interestingly, we have found that recycled paper, for both digital and litho, has had more of an attraction than PEFC or FSC."
On-press performance
Another issue for digital papers is compatibility problems, which can cause them to perform inconsitently on press.
If printers pay for the upkeep of the machine themselves they tend to use the best paper they can afford, but print-for-pay customers frequently tend to use whatever paper they can get away with.
De Vorchik adds: "As companies quite rightly focus on retaining existing customers while attracting new business, tailored materials play an important role." As a result, more papers are being launched designed to get the best performance out of specific presses.
WHAT'S NEW IN DIGITAL PAPERS
? Neenah Paper showcased its premium digital and environmental paper grades at its first print exhibition. Grades shown at Chicago’s Print 09 in September included Coronado SST, the FSC-certified Classic Crest digital and Classic linen digital papers
? Arjowiggins Graphic unveiled a new website, recycled-papers.co.uk, to provide news, information and views on the use of green papers. A survey undertaken by the company found that designers have seen a 50% increase in demand for environmentally friendly papers in the past two years
? Pira International has launched a report entitled The Future of Digital Printing Papers to 2013. The publication identifies key drivers of the market including advances in digital printing paper technologies, environmental impact and sustainability, and the changing demands from printers
? Paper merchant Robert Horne has appointed Paul French as managing director, following the departure of Alistair Gough in September
