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Celebrating a Decade of GSM Magazine

After ten incredible years and 24 inspiring issues, GSM Magazine has published its final print edition. Since its inception, GSM has been more than a magazine – it’s been a creative platform designed to inspire, connect, and celebrate the craftsmanship of the print and creative industries.

This last edition is a true showcase of talent and innovation, featuring contributions from Studio OK-OK, Express Colour, Munda Wines, Studio Sly, Pinky Print, Peacock Bros, Mat Wearne, Gri.D Communications, Elikon Printers, Hungry Workshop, Brandwell, Pack Creations, GF Smith, and many more. Each story reflects the passion and artistry that have defined GSM over the years.

A Cover Worth Remembering

The final cover is a statement piece, featuring the Majestic Metallic sheen that catches the light beautifully. Inside, you’ll experience the depth of colour on Mohawk Superfine Eggshell, and the tactile luxury and impressive bulk of Colorplan in the centre spread – materials that remind us why print remains such a powerful medium.

Thank You for Being Part of the Journey

To our readers, contributors, and partners: thank you for making GSM Magazine a trusted source of inspiration for a decade. While this marks the end of our print journey, the spirit of GSM – creativity, collaboration, and excellence – will continue to live on. Explore the final edition and celebrate the artistry of print with us.

GSM Magazine – Inspiration and Education For Graphic Designers In Print

Kwik Kopy Bankstown Shares Their Experience with the Roland DG VersaOBJECT MO-240

Customers increasingly expect fast turnaround and personalised products. Many print providers are exploring new technology to meet these changing demands. Kwik Kopy Bankstown is one of these businesses. They recently invested in the Roland DG VersaOBJECT MO-240 to expand their capabilities and strengthen their market position.

We visited Sean from Kwik Kopy Bankstown to learn how the MO-240 is supporting their growth. Sean explained that flexibility was central to their decision. The MO-240 prints on many substrates, including wood, acrylic, packaging and promotional items. This versatility allows the business to accept more varied and specialised jobs.

Sean noted that the printer’s compact footprint supported an easy installation process. His team integrated the machine with minimal disruption. The user-friendly interface also helped staff learn the workflow quickly. These features reduced setup time and improved overall efficiency.

Production speed has also improved. The MO-240 delivers consistent, high-quality results across complex and shaped objects. This capability has helped Kwik Kopy Bankstown offer premium personalised products with confidence. Faster production output has also supported stronger turnaround times for customers.

Sean highlighted the commercial advantages as well. The MO-240 has attracted new customers interested in customised solutions. Existing customers are also requesting more value-added work. These new opportunities strengthen both revenue and customer retention.

For businesses considering UV flatbed technology, Sean offered clear advice. He recommends focusing on long-term value and versatility.

View our chat with Sean here

Ball & Doggett is proud to support Kwik Kopy Bankstown with equipment that drives innovation and growth. To explore the Roland DG VersaOBJECT MO-240 or book a demonstration, contact our team today.

Ball & Doggett Experience Hub

Ball & Doggett Opens Brisbane Experience Hub for Hands-On Equipment Demonstrations

Ball & Doggett, Australia’s leading distributor of printable materials, press consumables, and equipment, has opened its new Experience Hub in Brisbane. Designed to provide customers with a hands-on opportunity to explore, test, and compare a wide range of print and finishing technologies, the Experience Hub represents Ball & Doggett’s commitment to innovation and customer support in the evolving sign, display, and packaging markets.

Located in Brendale, close to Ball & Doggett’s Brisbane site, the Experience Hub currently has a diverse line-up of equipment available for demonstrations, from wide-format printers, finishing equipment, CNC routers and lasers, and DTF printers and heat presses. Additional equipment will be added leading up to the Grand Opening in February 2026.
In addition to the equipment, the Experience Hub will have a selection of consumables and substrates, allowing visitors to experience full workflow demonstrations from print through to finishing.

“The Experience Hub is all about empowering our customers to make informed decisions,” said Rob Brussolo, GM Sign, Display, and Digital at Ball & Doggett. “There’s no substitute for seeing machines in action – understanding their capabilities, quality, and productivity firsthand helps customers select the right solution for their business.”

Open to customers by appointment, the Experience Hub offers an interactive environment where printers, converters, and graphics professionals can gain insight into the latest print technologies and applications.

“We’ve brought together an incredible range of equipment under one roof,” added Brussolo. “It means our customers can test, learn, and explore new production possibilities – all with the guidance of our experienced team.”

The official launch event for the Experience Hub is scheduled for February 2026, but customers are invited to book appointments now for personalised demonstrations and consultations.

For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact your local Ball & Doggett representative or visit www.ballanddoggett.com.au/the-experience-hub .

Ball & Doggett Unveils New Print & Packaging Consumables Catalogue – Delivering Smarter, Sustainable Solutions for the Industry

Ball & Doggett has launched its new Print & Packaging Consumables Catalogue, providing printers, packagers, and converters across Australia with an expanded range of pressroom, finishing, and sustainable consumable products – all in one comprehensive resource.

The catalogue reflects Ball & Doggett’s ongoing commitment to being the country’s Complete Solutions Hub for print, packaging, and visual communications, supporting customers with the materials and technical expertise they need to operate efficiently and sustainably.

“This launch is about making life easier for our customers,” said Aaron Carter, GM – Commercial Print at Ball & Doggett. “From pressroom essentials to sustainable packaging materials, the new catalogue helps businesses find the right products faster – backed by our national network and expert support.”

What’s Inside

The catalogue features an expanded range including:

  • Pressroom consumables including press chemistry, rollers and blankets for offset and packaging applications
  • Packaging tools and adhesives for corrugated folding carton and label markets
  • Finishing and converting supplies such as aqueous coatings, varnishes and offset inks

Each product section includes key technical details, compatibility notes, and QR codes linking directly to safety data sheets and online ordering via Ball & Doggett’s web solution.

Driving Innovation and Ease

The catalogue integrates with Ball & Doggett’s digital tools to streamline product discovery and ordering, allowing customers to browse and purchase online 24/7.

“Our customers are looking for quality, reliability and efficiency,” added Aaron Carter. “This catalogue brings those elements together – in print, online and on demand.”

Availability

The Print & Packaging Consumables Catalogue is available now in both print and digital formats.
Customers can request a copy from their local Ball & Doggett branch or view the catalogue at www.ballanddoggett.com.au.

Printer vs. Plotter

What Is The Difference Between a Printer and a Plotter?

When it comes to producing documents or graphics, many people wonder about the difference between a printer vs plotter. While both put ink on paper, the way they work — and the type of jobs they’re designed for — is quite different.

A printer is designed for everyday documents, photos, and graphics. It works by spraying tiny dots of ink or using toner to create an image quickly and efficiently. Great for reports, forms, and letters, but it’s not built for producing extra-large, highly detailed technical drawings or precise line work.

A plotter, on the other hand, is made for large-format printing. Instead of treating your file like a photo, it “draws” it with incredible precision, making it ideal for architectural plans, engineering schematics, GIS maps, or high-impact posters. Plotters can produce output far larger than standard printers, and with outstanding accuracy.

For example, a school might use a plotter to print colourful banners for events, while an engineering firm needs it for precise CAD drawings. A government department could create wayfinding maps or public notices in-house, saving time and outsourcing costs.

This is where the HP DesignJet range shines. Also known as plotters, these versatile devices combine the ease of a printer with the precision and scale of a plotter — perfect for technical documents, presentations, and eye-catching visuals.

Discover our range of HP DesignJet printers (https://ballanddoggett.com.au/hp-designjet-plotters/) and see how they can transform the way your business creates and shares big ideas.

Ball & Doggett Strengthens Packaging Portfolio Through Strategic Partnership with CMPC

Ball & Doggett, Australia’s largest distributor of printable materials and packaging substrates, is proud to announce a renewed exclusive distribution partnership with global pulp and paper producer CMPC.

This strategic partnership strengthens Ball & Doggett’s offering by securing access to a broader portfolio of high-quality, fibre-based packaging boards from one of the world’s most respected producers — providing Australian converters, printers and brand-owners with greater choice of sustainable boards, improved supply and trusted product performance.

“CMPC has an incredibly strong reputation across the Australian packaging industry. We’re proud to welcome it back to the Ball & Doggett family and extend this support to our local packaging convertors,” said Leigh Hooper, General Manager – Labels & Packaging, Ball & Doggett. “Partnering with CMPC enables us to deliver an expanded and reliable packaging board range tailored to the evolving needs of our customers.”

Among the highlights of this collaboration is the return of RC Kraft —  a multi-layer coated kraftback with superior stiffness and strength, and an outstanding yield.

“While RC Kraft’s return is a significant moment for us and our customers, this partnership is about far more than one grade,” stated Tammy Arhontissas, National Manager – Fibre-Based Packaging, Ball & Doggett. “It opens the door to the wider CMPC board offering, enabling us to further support the local market with our expansive range of sustainable FBB solutions.”

Produced in Chile by CMPC, the FBB portfolio features a range of virgin fibre packaging boards, engineered for consistent converting performance, excellent printability, and strong shelf presence. These grades are designed to meet the demands of premium folding carton applications across a variety of sectors, including food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, personal care and graphical packaging.

CMPC Export Manager, Mr. J. Francisco Martin is excited about this new strategic collaboration with Ball & Doggett, stating “This partnership aims to provide improved local service, support, and accessibility for our valued customers, ensuring a seamless supply chain for your packaging material needs.”

“We are confident that this collaboration with Ball & Doggett will further strengthen our commitment to serving the Australian market and providing the best possible solutions for your packaging requirements.” Mr. J. Francisco Martin concluded.

The CMPC Folding Boxboard portfolio will be available through Ball & Doggett from October 2025. It will be fully supported by our national packaging team, with product samples, swatches, and trial support available in the coming months. 

 

For further information on this announcement, please send enquiries to cartonboard@ballanddoggett.com.au

 

Nubium Print Shop Management Software

Introducing Nubium

In today’s fast-paced printing industry, efficiency and adaptability are key to staying competitive. For small to medium-sized print shops, managing daily operations can be challenging, especially when resources are limited. This is where print shop software like Nubium from eProductivity Software (ePS) can make a significant difference.

What is Print Shop Management Software?

Print shop management software is a solution designed to automate and streamline the various processes within a print shop. From estimating and job tracking to inventory management and invoicing, this type of software integrates these functions into a cohesive system, providing real-time insights and control over your operations.

Introducing Nubium: Tailored for Your Print Shop

Nubium is a cloud-native print shop software for small and medium-sized commercial printers. Understanding that not all print shops have dedicated IT staff or extensive setup capabilities, Nubium offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies print management without the need for complex installations or maintenance.

Key Benefits of Nubium

  1. Streamlined Operations: By automating tasks such as job estimation, scheduling, and inventory tracking, Nubium reduces manual workloads, allowing your team to focus on delivering quality prints and exceptional customer service.
  2. Improved Accuracy: Manual processes are prone to errors. Nubium ensures that all data is consistently recorded and accessible, minimizing mistakes and enhancing reliability in your operations.
  3. Real-Time Insights: With Nubium’s intuitive dashboard, you gain immediate access to vital information about your print jobs, equipment status, and inventory levels, enabling informed decision-making and proactive management.
  4. Cost Savings: Efficient resource management leads to reduced waste and optimized use of materials and time, directly impacting your bottom line positively.
  5. Scalability: As your business grows, Nubium grows with you. Its flexible architecture allows you to add new services, equipment, and users without significant additional investments.

Ease of Use and Implementation

One of Nubium’s standout features is its ease of deployment. As a cloud-based solution, it eliminates the need for on-site servers and complex installations. This means you can start managing your print shop more efficiently in no time without the need for specialised IT knowledge.

Why Choose Nubium?

Transitioning to a new system might seem daunting, especially if you’re cautious about technology. However, Nubium is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can navigate and utilise its features effectively. By embracing Nubium, you’re not just adopting a software solution; you’re investing in the future of your print shop, positioning it for success in an increasingly digital world.

For more information and to see how Nubium can transform your print business, visit our page

DTF Printing for Business

How DTF Printing is Transforming Personalised Branding

Personalised branding has become a powerful tool for businesses looking to stand out in today’s competitive marketplace. DTF printing for business which includes personalised branding enables companies to create bespoke merchandise that enhances brand visibility and deepens customer connections. Let’s explore how DTF printing is empowering businesses to elevate their branding strategies.

Why Personalisation Matters in Branding

Personalised branding resonates with consumers on a deeper level, fostering loyalty and engagement. A study by Deloitte found that 36% of consumers express interest in personalised products, with one in five willing to pay a 20% price premium. Custom merchandise offers businesses a tangible way to connect with their audience.

“Consumers today want more than just products—they’re looking to differentiate,” explains Joe Lahoud, Technical Specialist at Ball & Doggett. “By offering personalised merchandise, businesses can align their branding with their customers’ individuality, creating a lasting impression.”

The Advantages of DTF Printing for Businesses

1. Versatility Across Materials

DTF printing offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing businesses to print on a wide range of materials, including fabric, leather, and glass. Unlike traditional techniques, DTF enables intricate and elaborate designs, opening endless possibilities for unique and innovative branded items.

2. Cost-Effective Customisation

Unlike traditional methods that require bulk orders, DTF printing supports small-batch and one-off printing. This reduces inventory costs and allows businesses to offer personalised products without overcommitting on stock.

3. High-Quality, Durable Prints

DTF prints deliver vibrant, long-lasting designs that withstand wear and tear, ensuring branded merchandise maintains its appeal over time.

“DTF printing combines quality and creativity in a way that traditional methods often cannot,” adds Joe Lahoud. “This technology empowers businesses of all sizes to offer premium branding solutions without overcommitting on inventory or costs.”

The Future of Personalised Branding

Customisation is no longer a trend—it’s a fundamental shift in customer expectations. DTF printing is revolutionising personalised branding by offering businesses a cost-effective, high-quality solution for custom merchandise.

By leveraging its versatility, businesses can create meaningful connections with their audience and enhance their brand presence. As the demand for personalisation continues to grow, DTF printing is proving to be an invaluable asset in modern branding strategies.

Take Your Brand to the Next Level

Looking to enhance your brand with DTF printing? Explore our range of custom printing solutions at Ball & Doggett and bring your branding vision to life!

Australia’s First 100% Closed Loop Recyclable ‘Ecobanner’ Calls for an Eco-Revolution!

Ball & Doggett, Australia’s leading distributor of printable materials, consumables, and wide format printing equipment, is proud to announce an exclusive partnership to bring Ecobanner by GALE Pacific™ to the Australian market. The innovative Ecobanner is the only Australian-made, PVC-free flexible banner fabric capable of offering a 100% closed-loop recycling solution.

Ecobanner is the first product of its kind to be manufactured in Australia with closed loop recycling capability. This eco-friendly banner material not only supports local manufacturing but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally responsible products.

Ecobanner is the winner of the 2024 Sustainability Award at the World Out of Home Organization (WOO) Awards. This is a groundbreaking move for the Sign & Display market as Ecobanner can be recycled back into the same product, avoiding landfill.

The polypropylene composition makes it a robust and versatile material, perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications by ensuring durability and vibrant print quality on a latex and UV Inkjet printing technology. Ecobanner is available in Back Lit (white/white) and Front Lit (grey/white) banner options as well as generous 1600mm or 3200mm widths.

Furthermore, Ecobanner is part of a traceable full circular loop program, allowing for the complete recycling and repurposing of used banners. This contributes to a sustainable lifecycle and minimizes environmental impact. Unlike greenwashing claims, this Closed Loop Program is already in full swing, and its impact is measurable, demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability.

“We are thrilled to bring Ecobanner to the Australian market,” said Rob Brussolo, Ball & Doggett General Manager – Sign, Display & Digital. “This initiative underscores our commitment to providing innovative, high-quality, and sustainable solutions to our customers. Ecobanner not only meets the rigorous demands of flexible banner advertising but also sets a new standard for environmental stewardship in our industry.”

Healthy stock volumes of Ecobanner are now available across all Ball & Doggett locations. Ecobanner is well-positioned for the signage market and for socially conscious business brands aiming to enhance their sustainability narrative.

Ball & Doggett’s extensive distribution network and deep market knowledge will ensure that Ecobanner reaches a wide array of customers, from local businesses to large enterprises, empowering them to make sustainable choices for their advertising and signage needs.

Photo L to R: Troy Mortleman, General Manager – Australia/New Zealand, Vice President – Middle East/Europe/Asia from GALE Pacific Limited and Rob Brussolo, General Manager, Sign, Display & Digital from Ball & Doggett

Ball & Doggett Illuminates the Future with Palram Partnership

Ball & Doggett, is thrilled to announce our new partnership with Palram Industries, a global leader in the manufacturing of thermoplastic sheets. Under this new partnership, Ball & Doggett will distribute Palram’s innovative Palight and Palboard products throughout Australia, ensuring healthy stocks are readily available around the country.

Palight and Palboard, embody a fusion of innovation and functionality, offering a myriad of benefits to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Crafted from premium PVC materials, Palight and Palboard are engineered for durability, ensuring exceptional performance in any setting, whether indoors or outdoors. Their versatility shines through in applications ranging from dynamic indoor displays to robust outdoor structures, adapting effortlessly to varying project demands. Resilient against the elements, Palight and Palboard endure moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations with ease, ensuring lasting performance over time. Their ease of fabrication further enhances their appeal, allowing for seamless customization and installation using standard woodworking tools.

Commenting on the partnership, Rob Brussolo, General Manager – Sign, Display & Digital from Ball & Doggett stated: “We are delighted to join forces with Palram to bring their innovative Palight and Palboard products to our customers. We are confident that this partnership will empower our customers to elevate their projects to new heights of excellence.”

As leaders in the industry, Ball & Doggett are committed to offering premium solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and adding Palight and Palboard to our product offering aligns with this vision. For more information about Palight and Palboard, click on the product name to go directly to the product page on our website or click this link to request a quote or more information.