Steve Katz, Associate Editor11.11.24
In the label converting industry, efficiency, quality, and superior customer service are essential for staying ahead. Prepress and production equipment are critical tools that help meet converter needs, and for many label converters, management information system (MIS) software is just as important. MIS software offers numerous benefits, including improved production workflows, cost savings, and enhanced customer service.
An MIS system centralizes all business data, giving departments real-time access to crucial information. For label converters, this means job orders with smoother workflows, efficient material management and inventory control, reduced manual data entry, and fewer operational bottlenecks.
Accurate production planning is essential for label converters dealing with high-volume orders and complex custom requirements. An MIS system can generate detailed schedules and forecasts based on job requirements, resources, and deadlines. By accurately predicting production timelines, label converters can effectively communicate what customers can expect regarding turnaround times. Also, MIS systems can handle complex calculations automatically – in real time – whether it’s estimating material requirements, managing inventory levels, or tracking costs. This level of accuracy not only saves money but also boosts credibility with clients who rely on high-quality, error-free work.
Brand owners often rely on label converters to assist them in adhering to stringent regulations, especially in end-use markets like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals. An MIS system can be a valuable tool here, as the software can help to maintain compliance by tracking production standards, providing traceability, and ensuring quality control at every stage. MIS offers complete audit trails, documenting every step in the production process. This level of transparency is invaluable for meeting compliance standards and passing audits, particularly for converters working in regulated markets.
Minimizing both costs and waste are further benefits of MIS implementation. The software can optimize resource allocation and inventory management, reducing unnecessary expenses. By tracking materials in real time, converters can monitor usage and know when it’s time reorder, ensuring the right balance of materials on-hand. MIS systems can also identify areas of excess waste, whether in materials, time, or labor, allowing production personnel to make cost-saving adjustments.
Finally, MIS systems are scalable, making them suitable for both small and large converters alike. As a business grows, an MIS system can handle additional data and users without requiring a complete overhaul. This adaptability is particularly important for converters looking to expand their services or handle more complex, customized orders. By adopting an MIS system, label converters ensure their operations can evolve with market demands and new business opportunities.
Let’s take a look at the latest developments from some of the label industry’s dedicated MIS suppliers.
During Labelexpo Americas 2024, the company hosted at its booth “CERM Studio Sessions,” which allowed attendees to experience the Scheduling Optimizer first-hand. Led by Peter Heyse, director of product development at CERM, these sessions, along with live demonstrations, provided insights into how the AI-driven Scheduling Optimizer can enhance the scheduling process.
CERM’s Esteban Garcia and Steffen Hagga at Labelexpo Americas 2024
“Whether you’re handling complex production schedules, short-run orders, or high-end finishing, our Scheduling Optimizer delivers the most efficient and effective schedule tailored to your business’ unique needs,” says Sebastiaan Hermans, marketing manager at CERM.
Forming partnerships with fellow label industry suppliers has been another area of focus for CERM, as integration partnerships in the package printing industry can be key factors in driving efficiency and ensuring quality. With the launch of CERM’s Premium Integration Partnership program, the emphasis is on the importance of an integrated workflow when striving for productivity and processing more orders faster and better.
CERM has awarded Esko, the specialist in prepress workflow software, the CERM Premium Integration Partner quality label. The distinction represents the essence of an ideal partnership, the company says, noting that “it challenges us to work in tandem with all our integration partners toward shared goals and top-level quality. Forging stronger ties with our industry counterparts.”
The CERM-Esko integration automates the complete process from product creation in the CERM MIS software to the approval of the soft proof by the print buyer. This collaboration aims at eliminating tedious and time-consuming manual interventions and paving the way for a more streamlined and efficient process.
One of the most significant advantages of automation, especially in a sector where precision is crucial, is the reduction of potential errors. No longer do companies have to grapple with human-induced inconsistencies. Moreover, by automating repetitive tasks, it allows prepress operators to channel their expertise where it matters most, ensuring a consistent approach in file management, naming, and storage.
While each partner integration carries its unique essence and context, the CERM-Esko partnership was thoroughly analyzed in all its facets. According to Hermans, “We recognized the depth and quality of this automated workflow solution, and therefore we – quite logically - named Esko as our next Premium Integration Partner. It signifies that when two industry leaders collaborate, they produce results that are high in quality, reliable, and trustworthy.
“With a shared vision and a commitment to excellence, both Esko and CERM are set to redefine integration standards, ensuring that the end users get the best of both worlds, without declaring any undue advantage or bias within the industry. It’s a mark of assurance, a quality promise, and a commitment to drive our industry forward.”
Pieter Depondt, head of systems at Blue Label, explains, “We utilize Hybrid Software and its specific integration with CERM MIS to manage artwork handling and automate many steps, making high-end embellishment more feasible and scalable.”
CERM’s Scheduling Optimizer and SmartBI solutions have further improved Blue Label’s productivity and ability to manage its operations. The Scheduling Optimizer helps streamline daily production planning, ensuring that jobs are organized and executed with minimal delays. Depondt adds, “The Scheduling Optimizer is great for setting your main schedule, allowing us to maintain a smooth workflow throughout the day and maximize efficiency.”
SmartBI has transformed Blue Label’s data management practices, providing customized dashboards that offer visibility into performance metrics and help to identify areas for improvement.
From left, CERM’s Steffen Hagga, Andrew Boyd, and ABG’s Matt Burton discuss Blue Label’s workflow and technology integration.
“With customized dashboards and automated reporting, we can track key performance indicators and trends with unmatched clarity,” says Andrew Boyd, president at Blue Label Packaging Company. “This capability helps us make informed decisions and address issues proactively, which is crucial for maintaining our competitive edge.”
Blue Label attributes its growth to its strategic use of CERM’s capabilities. Boyd explains, “When we started with CERM, we had one printing press. Today, we have more than 10, and CERM has been crucial in allowing us to scale without compromising on quality.”
Data integrity has also been a key focus for Blue Label, given the vast number of products the company handles weekly. Depondt emphasizes the importance of this, stating, “With tens of thousands of products processed each week, the integrity of our data is crucial. CERM’s solutions ensure that we rarely encounter issues.”
Following the announcement, Amtech stated that combing the two companies solidifies Amtech’s position as a comprehensive software platform for the packaging industry. With the addition of Label Traxx, Amtech now provides software solutions to more than 750 customers and 1,200 manufacturing sites, spanning packaging markets across the globe.
Label Traxx provides a comprehensive software suite with end-to-end capabilities, including ERP, MES, MIS, CRM, and other solutions that are complementary to Amtech.
“Together, Amtech and Label Traxx form a highly differentiated, premier software platform within the packaging industry,” says Chuck Schneider, CEO of Amtech. “The combined company offers best-in-class, end-to-end solutions to meet our customers’ packaging and labeling needs across the world while optimizing their operations at both the enterprise and plant-level.”
Peak Rock Capital is the private equity firm behind Amtech. Preston Thomas, managing director of Peak Rock Capital, said at the time of the deal, “We are thrilled to invest in the combination of Amtech and Label Traxx. We’re excited about the value the combined platform will provide to all customers and the significant growth momentum of the business going forward.”
Label Traxx is up to version 9.0, and the software has incorporated Siteline and Batched into its ecosystem. In 2023, Label Traxx launched Cloud API, Data Warehouse, Siteline Sales Portal/CRM, Batched Automated Scheduling enhancements, and the Enterprise version of the software.
Siteline Sales Portal/CRM gives sales reps a means to contribute from any connected device. Users can create, view, and edit Label Traxx data – including prospects, customers, estimates, invoices, and orders. With Label Traxx version 9.0, Cloud API, Data Warehouse, and Label Traxx Enterprise, the company is extending its scope to address the requirements of an integrated ecosystem, providing multi-site support, and improving the accessibility of data stored in Label Traxx.
The newest release, HiFlow 4.0, emphasizes ease of use and superior tracking of analytics across production and warehousing. HiFlow offers label converters a single source of data, secure job and financial data, audit trail capture, job and document saving from a single site. HiFlow Solutions MIS also now features the automation of production planning and scheduling tools that allow schedulers to scale efficiently and optimize plant capacities.
HiFlow has introduced new workflow features specifically designed for custom product building by defining length, width, gusset and consideration of setup time, such as slitting or sterilization, for all production steps. These tools help ensure accurate and consistent estimating for flexible packaging, a key need in the industry.
HiFlow 4.0 emphasizes ease of use and analytics tracking.
HiFlow’s new integration with Esko’s Automation Engine has been a focal point, as it allows converters and flexographic print manufacturers to streamline processes and achieve high-quality outputs within highly efficient workflows.
At Labelexpo Americas 2024, HiFlow launched a new leasing model for label and flexo companies, eliminating the large capital outlay typically required. This new model makes HiFlow more accessible to independent converters, the company says, allowing them to leverage the latest software without significant upfront costs.
During the show, HiFlow noted that attendees at its booth were actively engaged, asking questions about the software’s many features. “Label converters frequently cited rising maintenance costs and the lack of innovation in their existing systems, as well as in the competition, as primary drivers for seeking new solutions,” says Alfonso Hernandez, VP of sales. “HiFlow’s functionality and forward-thinking approach stood out as a refreshing alternative to the outdated technologies many companies still rely on. The event was a tremendous success, affirming our leadership in the printing and packaging sectors.”
One of HiFlow’s distinct advantages lies in its independence, Hernandez says, adding, “As a family-owned, independent company, HiFlow Solutions offers value beyond the scope of larger conglomerate-owned software companies, delivering tailored, customer-focused solutions.
Mariusz Sosnowski, president and CEO of HiFlow Solutions, comments on the newest update. He says, “This software version is built on 25 years of MIS experience in the package printing industry. We’ve been family owned since 1999, with over two decades of investing in upgrades and innovation, and we bring those benefits back to our customers.
“HiFlow has been growing steadily in the North American market,” Sosnowski continues. “With active customers since 2020 and recent successful installations in different specific and size packaging manufacturers from one to few plants, we are able to showcase functionalities that improve efficiency for label converters and flexible packaging manufacturers.”
An MIS system centralizes all business data, giving departments real-time access to crucial information. For label converters, this means job orders with smoother workflows, efficient material management and inventory control, reduced manual data entry, and fewer operational bottlenecks.
Accurate production planning is essential for label converters dealing with high-volume orders and complex custom requirements. An MIS system can generate detailed schedules and forecasts based on job requirements, resources, and deadlines. By accurately predicting production timelines, label converters can effectively communicate what customers can expect regarding turnaround times. Also, MIS systems can handle complex calculations automatically – in real time – whether it’s estimating material requirements, managing inventory levels, or tracking costs. This level of accuracy not only saves money but also boosts credibility with clients who rely on high-quality, error-free work.
Brand owners often rely on label converters to assist them in adhering to stringent regulations, especially in end-use markets like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals. An MIS system can be a valuable tool here, as the software can help to maintain compliance by tracking production standards, providing traceability, and ensuring quality control at every stage. MIS offers complete audit trails, documenting every step in the production process. This level of transparency is invaluable for meeting compliance standards and passing audits, particularly for converters working in regulated markets.
Minimizing both costs and waste are further benefits of MIS implementation. The software can optimize resource allocation and inventory management, reducing unnecessary expenses. By tracking materials in real time, converters can monitor usage and know when it’s time reorder, ensuring the right balance of materials on-hand. MIS systems can also identify areas of excess waste, whether in materials, time, or labor, allowing production personnel to make cost-saving adjustments.
Finally, MIS systems are scalable, making them suitable for both small and large converters alike. As a business grows, an MIS system can handle additional data and users without requiring a complete overhaul. This adaptability is particularly important for converters looking to expand their services or handle more complex, customized orders. By adopting an MIS system, label converters ensure their operations can evolve with market demands and new business opportunities.
Let’s take a look at the latest developments from some of the label industry’s dedicated MIS suppliers.
Cerm leverages AI, values partnership
CERM has launched its new AI-powered Scheduling Optimizer, what the company says is poised to redefine how print shops manage their production schedules. Powered by advanced AI algorithms, the Scheduling Optimizer streamlines long-term planning while allowing planners to focus on short-term adjustments tailored to specific production needs. The product is designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and prepare businesses for the future of production management.During Labelexpo Americas 2024, the company hosted at its booth “CERM Studio Sessions,” which allowed attendees to experience the Scheduling Optimizer first-hand. Led by Peter Heyse, director of product development at CERM, these sessions, along with live demonstrations, provided insights into how the AI-driven Scheduling Optimizer can enhance the scheduling process.
CERM’s Esteban Garcia and Steffen Hagga at Labelexpo Americas 2024
“Whether you’re handling complex production schedules, short-run orders, or high-end finishing, our Scheduling Optimizer delivers the most efficient and effective schedule tailored to your business’ unique needs,” says Sebastiaan Hermans, marketing manager at CERM.
Forming partnerships with fellow label industry suppliers has been another area of focus for CERM, as integration partnerships in the package printing industry can be key factors in driving efficiency and ensuring quality. With the launch of CERM’s Premium Integration Partnership program, the emphasis is on the importance of an integrated workflow when striving for productivity and processing more orders faster and better.
CERM has awarded Esko, the specialist in prepress workflow software, the CERM Premium Integration Partner quality label. The distinction represents the essence of an ideal partnership, the company says, noting that “it challenges us to work in tandem with all our integration partners toward shared goals and top-level quality. Forging stronger ties with our industry counterparts.”
The CERM-Esko integration automates the complete process from product creation in the CERM MIS software to the approval of the soft proof by the print buyer. This collaboration aims at eliminating tedious and time-consuming manual interventions and paving the way for a more streamlined and efficient process.
One of the most significant advantages of automation, especially in a sector where precision is crucial, is the reduction of potential errors. No longer do companies have to grapple with human-induced inconsistencies. Moreover, by automating repetitive tasks, it allows prepress operators to channel their expertise where it matters most, ensuring a consistent approach in file management, naming, and storage.
While each partner integration carries its unique essence and context, the CERM-Esko partnership was thoroughly analyzed in all its facets. According to Hermans, “We recognized the depth and quality of this automated workflow solution, and therefore we – quite logically - named Esko as our next Premium Integration Partner. It signifies that when two industry leaders collaborate, they produce results that are high in quality, reliable, and trustworthy.
“With a shared vision and a commitment to excellence, both Esko and CERM are set to redefine integration standards, ensuring that the end users get the best of both worlds, without declaring any undue advantage or bias within the industry. It’s a mark of assurance, a quality promise, and a commitment to drive our industry forward.”
Blue Label’s seamless workflow
Blue Label Packaging Company is an all-digital label and packaging manufacturer based in Lancaster, OH, USA. One of the cornerstones of Blue Label’s operational efficiency is its integration of various systems. The company’s workflow connects CERM with Hybrid’s prepress software, HP Indigo presses, and ABG finishing equipment, among other tools. This integration allows them to automate many aspects of its production process, reducing manual intervention and minimizing the risk of errors.Pieter Depondt, head of systems at Blue Label, explains, “We utilize Hybrid Software and its specific integration with CERM MIS to manage artwork handling and automate many steps, making high-end embellishment more feasible and scalable.”
CERM’s Scheduling Optimizer and SmartBI solutions have further improved Blue Label’s productivity and ability to manage its operations. The Scheduling Optimizer helps streamline daily production planning, ensuring that jobs are organized and executed with minimal delays. Depondt adds, “The Scheduling Optimizer is great for setting your main schedule, allowing us to maintain a smooth workflow throughout the day and maximize efficiency.”
SmartBI has transformed Blue Label’s data management practices, providing customized dashboards that offer visibility into performance metrics and help to identify areas for improvement.
From left, CERM’s Steffen Hagga, Andrew Boyd, and ABG’s Matt Burton discuss Blue Label’s workflow and technology integration.
“With customized dashboards and automated reporting, we can track key performance indicators and trends with unmatched clarity,” says Andrew Boyd, president at Blue Label Packaging Company. “This capability helps us make informed decisions and address issues proactively, which is crucial for maintaining our competitive edge.”
Blue Label attributes its growth to its strategic use of CERM’s capabilities. Boyd explains, “When we started with CERM, we had one printing press. Today, we have more than 10, and CERM has been crucial in allowing us to scale without compromising on quality.”
Data integrity has also been a key focus for Blue Label, given the vast number of products the company handles weekly. Depondt emphasizes the importance of this, stating, “With tens of thousands of products processed each week, the integrity of our data is crucial. CERM’s solutions ensure that we rarely encounter issues.”
AmTech acquires Label Traxx
Earlier this year, Label Traxx, the longtime MIS software company serving the narrow web label market, made headlines when it announced it had been acquired by Amtech, LLC, an industrial software solutions provider to the packaging industry.Following the announcement, Amtech stated that combing the two companies solidifies Amtech’s position as a comprehensive software platform for the packaging industry. With the addition of Label Traxx, Amtech now provides software solutions to more than 750 customers and 1,200 manufacturing sites, spanning packaging markets across the globe.
Label Traxx provides a comprehensive software suite with end-to-end capabilities, including ERP, MES, MIS, CRM, and other solutions that are complementary to Amtech.
“Together, Amtech and Label Traxx form a highly differentiated, premier software platform within the packaging industry,” says Chuck Schneider, CEO of Amtech. “The combined company offers best-in-class, end-to-end solutions to meet our customers’ packaging and labeling needs across the world while optimizing their operations at both the enterprise and plant-level.”
Peak Rock Capital is the private equity firm behind Amtech. Preston Thomas, managing director of Peak Rock Capital, said at the time of the deal, “We are thrilled to invest in the combination of Amtech and Label Traxx. We’re excited about the value the combined platform will provide to all customers and the significant growth momentum of the business going forward.”
Label Traxx is up to version 9.0, and the software has incorporated Siteline and Batched into its ecosystem. In 2023, Label Traxx launched Cloud API, Data Warehouse, Siteline Sales Portal/CRM, Batched Automated Scheduling enhancements, and the Enterprise version of the software.
Siteline Sales Portal/CRM gives sales reps a means to contribute from any connected device. Users can create, view, and edit Label Traxx data – including prospects, customers, estimates, invoices, and orders. With Label Traxx version 9.0, Cloud API, Data Warehouse, and Label Traxx Enterprise, the company is extending its scope to address the requirements of an integrated ecosystem, providing multi-site support, and improving the accessibility of data stored in Label Traxx.
HiFlow Solutions launches version 4.0
HiFlow Solutions, a provider of ERP/MIS systems for the label and flexible packaging industry, recently launched a series of tools and features designed to give label converters greater control over production environments and to automate and integrate their entire business ecosystem. The company has unveiled new features to its software that focus on improving the user experience, enhancing data access, and increasing the ability to integrate with other software systems, including accounting platforms.The newest release, HiFlow 4.0, emphasizes ease of use and superior tracking of analytics across production and warehousing. HiFlow offers label converters a single source of data, secure job and financial data, audit trail capture, job and document saving from a single site. HiFlow Solutions MIS also now features the automation of production planning and scheduling tools that allow schedulers to scale efficiently and optimize plant capacities.
HiFlow has introduced new workflow features specifically designed for custom product building by defining length, width, gusset and consideration of setup time, such as slitting or sterilization, for all production steps. These tools help ensure accurate and consistent estimating for flexible packaging, a key need in the industry.
HiFlow 4.0 emphasizes ease of use and analytics tracking.
HiFlow’s new integration with Esko’s Automation Engine has been a focal point, as it allows converters and flexographic print manufacturers to streamline processes and achieve high-quality outputs within highly efficient workflows.
At Labelexpo Americas 2024, HiFlow launched a new leasing model for label and flexo companies, eliminating the large capital outlay typically required. This new model makes HiFlow more accessible to independent converters, the company says, allowing them to leverage the latest software without significant upfront costs.
During the show, HiFlow noted that attendees at its booth were actively engaged, asking questions about the software’s many features. “Label converters frequently cited rising maintenance costs and the lack of innovation in their existing systems, as well as in the competition, as primary drivers for seeking new solutions,” says Alfonso Hernandez, VP of sales. “HiFlow’s functionality and forward-thinking approach stood out as a refreshing alternative to the outdated technologies many companies still rely on. The event was a tremendous success, affirming our leadership in the printing and packaging sectors.”
One of HiFlow’s distinct advantages lies in its independence, Hernandez says, adding, “As a family-owned, independent company, HiFlow Solutions offers value beyond the scope of larger conglomerate-owned software companies, delivering tailored, customer-focused solutions.
Mariusz Sosnowski, president and CEO of HiFlow Solutions, comments on the newest update. He says, “This software version is built on 25 years of MIS experience in the package printing industry. We’ve been family owned since 1999, with over two decades of investing in upgrades and innovation, and we bring those benefits back to our customers.
“HiFlow has been growing steadily in the North American market,” Sosnowski continues. “With active customers since 2020 and recent successful installations in different specific and size packaging manufacturers from one to few plants, we are able to showcase functionalities that improve efficiency for label converters and flexible packaging manufacturers.”
