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Paragon choose Fujifilm for sustainability and productivity  

23 July 2024

Paragon ID UK, a global leader in identification solutions, has invested in LuXtreme, Fujifilm’s LED UV curing system, and CuremaX, Fujifilm’s LED UV inks.

The solutions were supplied by Fujifilm in conjunction with IST, who have recently partnered with Fujifilm to become the key supplier for the LuXtreme LED UV system for the narrow web market. Paragon ID UK is primarily a flexographic label print manufacturer with additional capability in production of RFID labels & access cards. Paragon ID, as a wider group, designs, develops and delivers secure contactless identification solutions including bank cards, mobile payment technology and train tickets based on smart technologies.

The partnership began when Paragon ID UK’s production site in Hull, driven by their own internal sustainability targets, made the decision to switch to Fujifilm’s Flenex water wash plates, which were supplied by trusted Fujifilm partner, Creation Repro in 2023. The relationship developed further when Paragon ID were introduced to Fujifilm‘s LuXtreme LED UV curing systems just prior to Labelexpo 2023. Paragon ID’s keen interest in the sustainability benefits of this solution in particular, led to the signing of three retrofit installations during the event.

Additionally, prior to the first installation in Hull, Paragon ID tested Fujifilm’s CuremaX inks and was delighted with their performance. This prompted Paragon ID to initiate the transition to CuremaX inks before the curing system installations began.

Despite the complexity of Paragon ID's product portfolio, the installations of the LuXtreme systems have proceeded smoothly, thanks to comprehensive onsite surveys conducted by IST.

Reflecting on the partnership, Jamie Parker, Head of Operations at Paragon ID’s Hull site, commented, "Our investment in Fujifilm's LuXtreme and CuremaX technologies underscores our commitment to driving sustainability and innovation in print solutions. At our production site in Hull, we have spearheaded efforts to eliminate solvent emissions from magnetic stripes, transitioned to LED technology for energy savings, and embraced water-based solutions in relation to plate supply. By leveraging Fujifilm's expertise and cutting-edge technologies, we are now able to deliver unparalleled value to our customers while maximising our environmental credentials. The investments have enabled us to realise a range of energy, time and cost savings while achieving unparalleled performance and productivity.”

"We are thrilled to partner with Paragon ID UK in their journey towards sustainability and innovation in print technology," added Ian Isherwood, Segment Manager EMEA - Analogue Packaging, Fujifilm Europe. "By combining Paragon ID's industry expertise with Fujifilm's advanced solutions, we are confident in our ability to deliver comprehensive and sustainable print solutions to customers worldwide."

Commenting on the partnership, Andreas Bosse, Head of Marketing at IST, stated: "We are excited to have facilitated the integration of Fujifilm's innovative solutions into Paragon ID's operations in Hull. This partnership marks the beginning of our collaboration with Fujifilm and underscores our shared commitment to driving technological advancement and sustainability in the print industry."

Source: Largeformatreview