Category: Blog

In the field of LED-UV ink manufacturing, few names stand as tall as Megami Inks. Originating in Japan in 1928, Megami Inks boasts a longstanding tradition of providing state-of-the-art solutions that have garnered global recognition for their relentless pursuit of technological frontiers in UV, LED, Metallic and fluorescent ink manufacturing. Within Australia, the ongoing partnership between Ball & Doggett and Megami Inks is establishing a benchmark for innovation, quality, and success.

At the core of Megami Inks’ identity lies an unwavering commitment to quality. This commitment is particularly critical for high-volume printing businesses where ink quality directly impacts operational costs. Megami inks LED-UV, renowned for their efficiency and durability, lead to fewer ink changes, reduced waste, and extended machine life, providing substantial cost savings that accumulate over time.

An exceptional highlight within Megami’s range is the UV MEGACURE Series, which presents an array of Process and Pantone hues, along with metallic and fluorescent tones. Additionally, it includes both matte and gloss duct varnishes, which are available in HUV, LED, and UV series. Megami’s Metallics range is a triumph of Japanese technology, boasting a stabilized metallic surface that prevents oxidation, resulting in superior shine. The Megacure LED inks, shine with their remarkable half-tone dot vividness and transparency, producing printed materials of exceptional clarity. With a low tack property, they adapt well to diverse range of paper types, while its high scratch resistance and post-processing durability elevate its performance. The ink’s good adhesive properties enable printing on a select range of non-absorbent plastics and metallized paper.

The remarkable durability and versatility of Megami’s Megacure LED range of gold and silver metallic inks and coatings, excel in applications requiring enduring vibrancy, such as packaging, labels, and industrial prints. A key advantage of LED-UV inks lies in their rapid curing under light exposure, minimizing production time while boosting colour intensity and resistance properties.

In the world of creative design and print, paper selection plays a pivotal role in the final aesthetic and impact of any project. Ball & Doggett, a leading distributor of high-quality paper and communication materials, has always been at the forefront of introducing innovative and superior products to the market. Lessebo Coloursis a highly versatile range of eco-conscious papers, showcasing vibrant and sharp hues with maximum expression and minimal footprint. This innovative range offers 24 colours and a plethora of weight options as a replacement for the beloved Kaskad line.

Saying Goodbye to Kaskad

Recognizing the need for a paper range that not only matches but surpasses the capabilities of the well-loved Kaskad range, Ball & Doggett has introduced the Lessebo Colours paper range. While Kaskad has been a reliable choice for many projects, the Lessebo range takes a step forward, offering enhanced features that meet the needs of modern creative endeavours.

Exciting New Weights and Sheet Size

One of the standout features of the Lessebo Colours is the introduction of new weights, including a substantial 300gsm and a 120gsm option. This addition opens up a realm of possibilities for those seeking to make a bold statement with their designs. The heavier weight not only exudes a sense of quality and luxury but also provides improved durability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The 120gsm text weight  making it an ideal choice for brochures, pamphlets, booklets, and a wide range of printed materials catering to projects that require a balance between substance and flexibility.

Larger Sheet Size: 700 x 1000mm

Furthermore, the Lessebo range boasts a larger sheet size of 700 x 1000, offering a canvas that is more expansive and accommodating for various design formats. This larger sheet size is a direct response to the evolving demands of the creative industry, which often requires greater flexibility in terms of maximising yield and minimising waste through layout and composition.

Unleashing Creativity with Lessebo Colours

Delivering a selection of 24 shades, this palette embarks on a journey of limitless expression, from vibrant and bold tones that command attention to subtle and delicate shades that evoke tranquillity, each colour in the Lessebo range is thoughtfully curated to harmonise effortlessly and lend excitement and impact to any project. Whether it’s a striking business card, an eye-catching promotional materials, poster, a colourful packaging choice, or a bold invitation, Lessebo Colours offers a platform that amplifies the impact of every commercial application. 

Environmental Considerations

In a world where sustainability is becoming a paramount concern, the Lessebo Colours is crafted with environmental consciousness in mind. The range is produced with sustainable practices and materials, allowing designers to choose an option that aligns with their values without compromising on quality or aesthetics.

Elevate Your Creative Projects with Lessebo Colours

The exciting new weights and larger sheet size provide designers, printers, and creatives with the tools they need to push boundaries and unlock new creative potential. With its versatility, durability, and eco-friendly approach, the Lessebo range stands ready to become an indispensable asset in the toolkit of every creative professional. In a world of printed communication, Lessebo Colours from Ball & Doggett is the canvas on which vibrant imaginations can truly thrive.

By Gary Bowles

Ball & Doggett trading as Conect Enterprises is excited to announce a strategic and exclusive partnership with leading global Heat Transfer Vinyl manufacturer POLI-TAPE. 

Conect Enterprises are a leading supplier to the Sign, Display and Digital market for over 30 years and since 2010 been a market leader in the supply of Heat Transfer Films to the Signage and Craft market. 

Recently acquired by Ball & Doggett, Australia’s largest supplier of printable materials in September 2022, Conect are looking to further expand their range of products and services to support their clients’ growing needs.

Rob Brussolo General Manager Ball & Doggett – Sign, Display & Digital “The POLI-TAPE partnership is an exciting next step in our growth plans in the signage and craft market providing all existing Conect and Ball & Doggett customers access to a broader range of innovative and market leading heat transfer films. In addition, we will continue to support the market with local technical expertise and state-based stock holdings. We will be launching the new POLI-FLEX range by POLI-TAPE on the 13th November. In the interim we have sufficient stocks of Siser Heat Transfer Vinyl to ensure there will be no interruption to supply. More information will be provided over the coming weeks”

POLI-TAPE is an innovative family run business and is a global market leader in the manufacturing of high quality Textile Transfer Films, Digital Printing Media, Plotter and Laminating films as well as Adhesive Tapes for advertising and display lettering. Their films are used for enhancing artwork lettering on sport and casual clothes as well as advertisements on windows, cars and various other advertising spaces. With nearly 400 employees worldwide, they supply their customers high quality products in more than 90 countries all over the world.

Managing Director of POLI-TAPE Group Mark Wehrmann – “We are thrilled to partner with B&D to jointly bring the offering within the signage, retail and craft market to the next level in Australia. With our highest product quality standards as well as new innovative value adds, paired with B&D local expertise the foundation is set to exceed customers’ expectations.”

Luke Wilkinson Ball & Doggett CEO  “We are excited to announce this partnership with such an innovative and reputable company in POLI-TAPE who share our commitment to the Signage, Craft and Retail market in Australia”.  For further information regarding this announcement please contact your local Conect representative.

Luke Wilkinson

CEO Ball & Doggett

CONECT WEBSITE LINK

Introducing the revolutionary RAPIDA ECO process printing inks – a true game-changer in the sheetfed printing world. Renowned for its unmatched speed, this fast setting ink series has quickly become one of the fastest in the market. What sets Rapida Eco apart is its commitment to sustainability, being entirely mineral oil-free – a rare feature in inks of this caliber.

RAPIDA ECO’s exceptional characteristic lies in its ability to enable immediate post print, making it an ideal choice for straight and perfecting presses. It also boasts remarkable duct-freshness, making it compatible in a variety of climatic conditions.

Huber’s dedication to sustainability is evident, as Josef Sutter, Product Manager Sheet-fed/UV Europe at hubergroup, emphasises. Understanding the demand for both speed and sustainability, they took on the challenge of reformulating their fastest sheet-fed ink series. The result is Rapida Eco, one of the fastest non mineral oil based inks available on the market, with outstanding printing behavior and compatibility with existing processes.

Huber has been at the forefront of sustainable practices in the commercial market for years. In 2017, they became the first international ink manufacturer to receive a Cradle to Cradle certificate in the sheet-fed offset sector. Recently, they announced a complete Cradle to Cradle Material Health Certified® Gold portfolio for commercial and packaging offset printing. With the majority of raw materials sourced from their own Chemicals Division, hubergroup ensures high environmental standards throughout the value chain.

If you’re looking to combine speed, performance and sustainability in your printing projects, don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss Rapida Eco and its numerous benefits for your business.

RAPIDA ECO TECHNICAL INFORMATION HERE

Contact Print Packaging Consumables Graphics Department here

Zaidee Jackson, the National Business Development Manager of Sustainable Packaging and the driving force behind this initiative, expressed her pride as a distributor in providing a valuable resource that centers around sustainability and materiality in Australia.

With the recent release of the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) review on the 2025 Targets, the need for proactive action and urgent decision-making by brands in this arena has become evident. The focus is now on driving education and supporting the packaging industry to ensure a sustainable future. Emphasising collective efforts and a shared economy of information, the platform aims to provide an information resource dedicated to sustainability so that targets and roadmaps can be achieved.

The newly launched educational resource offers an extensive range of podcasts, articles, research, and insights from industry experts, all aimed at reducing environmental impacts. It includes a comprehensive product index along with ecoaudit questions and answers to assist and collaborate with industries on their sustainable journeys.

On the launch day, three key associations – the Printing & Visual Communication Association (PVCA), Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), and The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) – came together for the first time. The event featured a panel of distinguished keynote speakers, including Kellie Northwood, Amber Bonney, Chris Foley, and Nerida Kelton (AIP), along with panelists John Bigley, CEO Zipform Packaging, Rowena Curlewis, CEO Denomination, Sally Williams, Founder Choice for Life and Asaf Weis, Managing Director Vacupack. The panel discussion, expertly moderated by industry media partner Lindy Hughson from PKN Packaging News, provided valuable insights and perspectives.

The event garnered extensive interest, attracting more than 300 guests from various locations worldwide, including Australia, New Zealand, London, Finland, South Africa, Singapore, Japan, and India. Both in person attendance and livestream participation added to the event’s success.

As pioneers leading the conversation within the industry, ecoporium by Ball & Doggett have proudly renewed the exclusive media partnership with PKN Packaging News for the period of 2023-2024.

ecoporium by Ball & Doggett

Ball & Doggett together with Avery Dennison Graphic Solutions are pleased to provide you with a series of value add workshops to enhance your business portfolio in the Sign, Display & Digital Market. We are currently hosting the following workshops:

Sydney: Advance Vehicle Wrapping Fleet & Auto Aftermarket Workshop
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Sydney Motor Sport Park, Eastern Creek, NSW
8:30am to 5:00pm
Investment: $349+GST per person / $299+GST each for 2 attendees
Click here for full Sydney program and registration details

Melbourne: Advance Vehicle Wrapping Fleet & Auto Aftermarket Workshop
Friday 22nd September 2023
Team 18 Racing, Head Quarters, Mt Waverly, VIC
8:30am to 5:00pm
Investment: $349+GST per person / $299+GST each for 2 attendees
Click here for full Sydney program and registration details

Brisbane: Essential ‘Walls, Window, Partial Vehicle Wrap’ Technique Workshop
Thursday 5th October 2023
Ball & Doggett office, Brendale, QLD
8:30am to 5:00pm
Investment: $349+GST per person / $299+GST each for 2 attendees
Click here for full Brisbane program and registration details

Ball & Doggett, Australia’s largest distributor of printable materials, press consumables and wide format printing equipment is pleased to announce the winner of its recent MetaWrap – Are YOU Australia’s Greatest Wrapper competition. The competition was open to all registered print, sign and display businesses who had a passion for wrapping and who wanted to showcase their skills and talents. The competition is open agnostic brand and allowing the installation and design speak for themselves.

After receiving an overwhelming number of submissions from across the country, judges – Matt Horne (Wrap Studio), Dan Sefton (Metamark) and our very own Steve Warn, National Manager – SAV & Heat Transfer had a tough time selecting the winner. However, after careful consideration, the winner of the Ball & Doggett, MetaWrap – Are YOU Australia’s Greatest Wrapper competition is Coopers Camo Truck by Killer Image from Glendenning, NSW.  “I am shocked and amazed to have won. There are so many talented people in this industry, and it is nice to be recognised for our work” said Joel Goff, Managing Director, and winner.

“The winner impressed us with their exceptional design and attention to detail. Their solution demonstrated a high level of creativity, innovation, and technical expertise, which not only met but exceeded our expectations. They put a great deal of effort into perfecting every aspect of their work,” said Dan Sefton.  “Killer Image stood out for their exceptional technical wrapping skills, which were clearly demonstrated across the full truck wrap and the challenges met for the inner footstep” appreciated by Judge Matt Horne. Finally, Steve Warn added “The winning Wrapper stood out for its combination of creativity and practicality. The design and use of colour was both bold and cohesive, creating a visually stunning display. Overall, this installation was a true standout and a deserving winner.”

As the winner, Killer Image will receive a trip for two people to Munich Germany including return airfares from their nearest capital city, accommodation and breakfast, AUD$1000 spending money and entrance into FESPA Global Print Expo next month as guests of Metamark UK! Prize is valued at $7500.

The judges would like to give a special mention to the businesses listed (no order) for their entries in this competition. Although they did not win, their impressive achievements and standout installation truly wowed the judges. We commend these businesses for their hard work and dedication, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.

Dizzi Decalz with project ‘Finish Him!’
EB Graphics with project ‘Bearey #46 Glamour Street Stock’
YBI FX  with project ‘The Angry Carrot – Junior Dragster Race Team Branding’
YBI FX with project ‘Dog House Ski Race Boat’
CRG Designs Pty Ltd with project ‘Laser Thing SS Wagon’
Browns Graphix with project ‘Dental Room Chair Wrap’
Grafico Group with project ‘The Motley Hotel’

“We were thrilled to see the level of creativity and skill displayed in the entries we received,” said Rob Brussolo, General Manager – Sign, Display & Digital at Ball & Doggett. “It was clear that each entry was created with care and attention to detail, and we are so grateful to everyone who participated in the competition.”

The MetaWrap – Are YOU Australia’s Greatest Wrapper competition presented by Ball & Doggett was created to celebrate all parts of wrapping including design, print and installation and to showcase the diverse range of applications available through wrapping. Ball & Doggett is proud to have provided a platform for talented businesses to showcase their skills and creativity, and congratulates Killers Image on their impressive win.

‘From our Family to Yours’, A collection of Recipes and quotes on Optimism. A cookbook that keeps us connected WINS GOLD

Ball & Doggett are thrilled to share with you that we celebrated success along with Southern Impact at the recent 39th National Print Awards, held at Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre, Thursday 30th June 2022.

This project was created to celebrate resilience, fortitude, the spirit of industry and partnership. The cookbook houses recipes as shared experiences of our Ball & Doggett team members and their families.

Our project team created a publication with heart. The cookbook was presented as a gift to both customers and our national team.

A token of thanks at Christmas 2021 for their resilience, commitment and passion to our business.

Huge thank-you to our supply partners who made this cookbook something special.

A huge congratulations and shout out to: • Southern Impact, Melbourne, Australia for winning out GOLD, National Commercial Print • Courtney Newman, Ball & Doggett, GOLD, National Designer of the Year

Full List of achievement

Victoria State Category

Gold: Commercial Print – Southern Colour Gold: Designer of the Year – Courtney Newman Gold: Multi Piece Promotion & Campaign

National Awards: Gold: Commercial Print – Southern Colour Gold: Designer of the Year – Courtney Newman Bronze: Multi Piece Promotion & Campaign

Suppliers, Partners…who needs them? Every single one of us!

We were thrilled embarking on this project with our production partners. Gary Bowles from Arjowiggins Fine Papers came on board the moment we pitched the idea as our sponsor along with our print partner Southern Impact, Rod Dawson and Heath Nankervis.

We would like to acknowledge Kellie Northwood, CEO of The Real Media Collective for celebrating with us on this project and providing the forward in our publication.

It is an unapologetic celebration of print and what it offers us.

Thank-you to each and everyone that contributed to this project, this win is a collective industry win.

For your very own copy head over to Pedigree Paper, the retail division for Ball & Doggett. You can purchase this award winning cookbook for AUD$15 +gst

https://pedigreepaper.com.au/order-inspiration

A special note on Courtney Newman: We are so proud of our Courtney on this spectacular achievement and want to take this moment to recognise her for her creative execution on all of our Ball & Doggett work. This acknowledgement celebrates her continued success within our business. A dream creative to work with, expressing briefs through her lens, collaborating with consideration and articulating design for various market channels with ease. Our business celebrates you, Courtney! Congratulations!

Article by Zaidee Jackson, National BDM – Sustainable Packaging

For the full edition of The Collecitve Edit please click here to download your copy

Australian businesses continue to face many challenges, with rising prices, labour concerns and supply chain issues being the top concerns. There are four main elements to the sustained higher price environment we continue to find ourselves in. These are energy, container availability, pulp and currency fluctuations. All of these are in demand globally and therefore prices are continuing to rise. This document is designed to explain some of the underlying drivers impacting pricing and to assist the messaging through the supply chain. Click here to view the full report.