Xerox is certainly making a lot of news at this edition of drupa. I think one of our earlier announcements could wind up being one of our most enduring -- our move into printing digital packaging.

In the run-up to the show, Xerox and Stora Enso announced a packaging solution that uses our iGen3® 110 Digital Production Press to print variable data cartons and other packaging in short runs for the pharmaceutical market. It consists of an Epic CTi-635 varnishing unit with both aqueous and UV-coating options from Xerox, a KAMA die cutter with 580 x 400 mm sheet size and a stacker-conveyer unit from Stora Enso. That system is on display in the stand.

The system will help drug companies get new medicines to market faster and boost profits. Also on display - other packaging solutions, from boxes for contact lenses to chewing gum packages. Such applications point to a growing revenue opportunity for digital print providers. Why are these applications appealing?

First, they make a strong impression. Consumers are pleasantly surprised to see their name on a chewing gum pack or special targeted information about their prescription on a box.

Secondly, on-demand printing allows packing to be printed when needed, eliminating the need to keep large and costly inventories. And variable data can print individualized batch codes and other information allowing for an extra level of security for applications that require it.

Watch this space for more developments to come!

Tom Wetjen
Vice President, Worldwide Graphic Communications Industry
Production Systems Group
Xerox Corporation