On September 3rd and 4th, E-Pack Europe took place in Vienna.

Organized by Smithers, E-Pack Europe is a platform for innovators and thought leaders to discuss technical and operational challenges for the fast-growing e-commerce packaging sector.

During this event, DJM participated in a presentation session with HP and Thimm to highlight the added value of digital printing for e-commerce packaging.

One of the cases presented involved the integration of inkjet printers into an automated packaging machine. The packaging machine automatically resizes and closes the box. Integrating inkjet printers into this machine allows the box to be printed with variable data. The printing process is initiated by reading a unique barcode as the box enters the machine. The data is then captured, ripped and sent to the printer to print the lid. After printing, the lid is applied to the box. A custom software protocol has been developed for this process so that it is completely autonomous.

Benefits of the automated packaging line:

• saving shipping costs by using the right size packages
• reducing overall shipping volume

Benefits of digital printing:

• shipping boxes with brand logo
• ability to personalize packaging
• no need for a separate shipping label (from a thermal transfer printer)
• better interaction with the consumer (unboxing experience)