FINAT has launched a series of webinars designed to present the latest independent label industry knowledge, focusing on topics relevant to the future of the industry.
The purpose of the webinars is to offer a convenient tool at members’ fingertips to brief them on management, technology and sustainability developments that may impact their business in the near future.
The board’s New Converting Technology taskforce is driving the webinar programme, and works closely with FINAT’s Young Managers Club that regularly organises business webinars specifically for young managers in the label industry.
The 2015 Technology Webinar Series follows a webinar at the end of last year on the future of printed electronics. ‘Proactive knowledge sharing and supporting our members, as well as the industry in general on technologies, trends and challenges is an ongoing focus for FINAT, as innovation continues apace. The webinar last year proved so successful that we felt members would benefit from more,’ commented Kurt Walker, president. ‘On closer investigation three topics stood out.’
The first webinar, 7 May at 2PM CET, will be ‘Sensory Labels and Packaging’ by Hannah Hall, research manager at Blue Yonder Research. The webinar will provide insights into the techniques used to ensure that brands connect with their end-user on a multi-sensorial, often sub-conscious level that drives loyalty.
The webinar is open to FINAT member company representatives who can register on the website.
The one will be held on 27 August at 2PM CET, ‘The Impact of Good Colour Management’ by Marcus Ruckstädter, sales director at EU Zeller + Gmelin
Mr Ruckstädter will look at why on site colour management is needed to reduce downtime and increase uptime; and how to understand customer as well as brand demands and their key drivers. Also the current challenges, along with the associated costs, printers and converters are will be addressed in the presentation. He will also detail possible solutions based on technology, not the human eye, and process driven financial and customer retention benefits.
Finally, ‘Direct Print – A Threat to Pressure Sensitive’ by Corey Reardon, CEO of AWA Alexander Watson Associates will be held on 26 November at 2PM CET. Mr Reardon will expand on potential threats to the label market such as digital heat transfers on to bottles, replacing PS and competing with allied technologies such as sleeves and IML.
‘We believe these are subjects our members are keen to get a better understanding of. It will help them to investigate further what the possibilities are for them, now and in the future. Individually or collectively, the information can make a significant difference to the direction an operation takes both in terms of investment and customer development. We look forward to seeing how members use the knowledge to make real changes to the performance of their businesses,’ added Chris Ellison of OPM Labels and Packaging, who is the FINAT board member responsible for new technology awareness. ‘In tandem with the Young Managers Club webinars, we are building a nice stream of new FINAT knowledge sharing activity, all created to support members on their path to success and profitability.’
