Print in the Channel – issue #20

PRINT inthechannel.co.uk

Issue #20

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CONTENTS

Comment Editor's viewpoint p6 News You should know p8 Product Launches Canon imageFORCE C7165 p12 Ricoh Pro 8400 series p16 TSC AUTO ID RE310 p20 Zebra Kiosk System p31 HP AI Print Intelligent print p24 Brother Remanufacturing programme p26 Eagle Eye – BI Instant Print Cameras p28 Interview Richard Wells, Epson p34 Cloud Print Management Blue sky thinking p38 Smart Labelling Get smart p45 Sustainable Ink No excuse p48 People News p51 STOCKIES 2024 s1

HP AI PRINT – p24

At the HP Imagine event, HP launched a range of products including HP Print AI, what is claimed to be the industry’s first intelligent print experiences that looks to improve the print experience for everyone.

Cloud Print Management – p38

While adoption of cloud print is growing among SMBs, there are still some that are resistant to it and for a variety of reasons. But these perceived barriers can be overcome by resellers.

Sustainable Ink – p48

Sustainability is key for many businesses today, and they are looking for energy and resource savings wherever they can find them. The print fleet is no exception, and businesses are looking to the ink they use – and manufacturers have solutions in place.

Interview: Richard Wells – p34

Product Launches:

While the print sector continues to have its challenges, it has been a positive year for Epson, which has launched a range of new products. Richard Wells explains why Epson has been successful, how a focus on sustainability has helped with this.

A range of print products have been launched recently, including devices from Canon, Ricoh, TSC and Zebra.

CONTENTS

Stockies AWARDS

Brother has recently launched a programme to remanufacture inkjet cartridges, which has the aim of helping customers to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the circular economy. Brother Remanufacturing – p26

https://stockies.co.uk/ 2024 The SHORTLISTS...

Editorial Dan Parton 07941 979 845 dan@ printinthechannel.com Head of Sales Martin Jenner-Hall 07824 552 116 martin@ printinthechannel.com Publishing Director Justin Penn 07816 573 186 justin@ printinthechannel.com

This year the Stockies are bigger than ever, with an entire week dedicated to celebrating the successes of the IT channel.

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Smart Labelling – p45

Smart labels are becoming increasingly popular in a range of sectors for their ability to hold much more information than traditional labels and be tracked. This trend is set to continue, which provides opportunities for resellers.

Cover Story: Fujifilm – p22

While global cybercrime costs may seem far removed from day-to-day business operations, they underscore a crucial point: connected devices, including multifunction printers (MFPs), represent a key vulnerability in modern workplaces.

Published by: In the Channel Media Ltd Company registration number: 14363401 Registered office address 14-18 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom, W1B 4DA In conjunction with:

Product Launches

printinthechannel.co.uk

COMMENT

Promoting the benefits There are many new and emerging technologies in the print sector that are making things easier for customers or enabling them to do more with what they have, but sometimes they can take a bit of convincing.

For resellers in the print sector, a significant part of the role when selling to customers involves promoting the benefits of new or different technologies and how they can enhance their operations. In recent years in the print sector, cloud print management has been one that has been a regular part of conversations with customers. There are various advantages to taking print management into the cloud and many businesses have embraced it. But there

emerging technology that is impacting on the print sector, and this is touched on in several features. For instance, we cover HP’s launch of HP Print AI at its recent HP Imagine event, which seeks to improve the print experience for everyone. Read more on p24. Sustainability also continues to ascend the agenda for businesses large and small and they are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, including in their printer fleet. Manufacturers in the print sector are

Dan Parton

are still some that haven’t, and they are often small- to medium-sized businesses. For these businesses that haven’t made the move to cloud print management, there are often a variety of

responding to this, for instance, by producing printer inks that are more sustainable by being 100% recyclable and having

refillable ink cartridges to save on resources.

Read more on p48. Another sustainable practice that is growing in popularity is remanufacturing. Brother has recently established a facility to remanufacture its inkjet

barriers that are perceived to be preventing that. However, resellers can help them to overcome these, including through education and providing expertise. Read more on p38. Another developing technology is smart labelling. Labels today can be so much more than just basic printed information. For instance, 2D barcodes, like QR codes, help improve consumer engagement and enable better supply chain management while RFID technology facilitates better inventory and asset management across the supply chain. With smart labels becoming increasingly demanded in a range of sectors, it means that resellers have plenty of opportunities to sell smart label printers and their accessories to customers – and this is only set to grow in the

cartridges, as part of a new free service to help users contribute to circular economies. Cartridges are inspected, taken apart, cleaned and put together again, including any new parts required. The resulting product is as good as new but uses fewer resources. Read more on p26. With such a array of technology coming onto or gaining traction in the marketplace, there are no shortage of opportunities for resellers to grasp. As always, I hope you enjoy the issue. If there are any topics you would like to see covered in a future issue, or you have news stories or opinion pieces you would like to submit, please drop me an email at dan@newsinthechannel.com

coming years. Read more on p45. Artificial intelligence (AI) is another

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NEWS

TechGirls top of the class for Konica Minolta’s Ada Lovelace Day

Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd welcomed the next generation of technology specialists to its Girls in Tech event at the company’s Client Engagement Centre (CEC) in Houghton Regis in Bedfordshire. Held in partnership with TechGirls, Year Eight students from local schools marked Ada Lovelace Day, an international celebration of the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Ada Lovelace Day aims to increase the profile of women in STEM and, in doing so, create new role models who will encourage more girls into STEM careers, while supporting women already working in these sectors. As part of the TechGirls community, Konica Minolta has delivered workshops to

girls across the UK and this event aimed to support students who are about to decide their GCSE Options and encourage them to think about career paths towards STEM sectors. “The tech industry continues to face challenges with female representation, and this event is one way we can address this by showcasing the vibrant and dynamic opportunities within the sector,” said Gillian Nuttall, people and culture ESG partner at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK). Students were tasked with creating a poster that promotes and inspires women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and maths. The posters were then designed and printed using Konica Minolta’s devices.

MPS providers must evolve and diversify – study

Managed print service (MPS) providers have a major opportunity to capitalise as businesses plan significant hardware and security investments to deal with the perfect storm of planned hardware refreshes, Windows 10 end-of-life, and the rush to embrace AI, a new study has said. Quocirca’s MPS Landscape Study 2024 shows that eight in 10 organisations plan to roll out AI-powered PCs across their business in the next 12 months, with 73% of these planning to refresh their print fleet at the same time. Accordingly, 48% of respondents expect to invest more in print and imaging over the coming year. “The market is having to accelerate hardware refreshes across the board as customers abandon age-related renewal cycles in favour of implementing new hardware performance capabilities,” said Louella Fernandes, CEO, Quocirca. “This presents an enormous opportunity for MPS providers who can broaden their offering to adjacent IT services and offer customers AI solutions and advanced services to support the hybrid work environment.” Further findings in the study include: l Print volumes are now at 55% of pre- pandemic levels l The top three technology investment areas

for the coming year are cybersecurity (66%), AI (64%) and cloud computing (56%) l The top three print management priorities for the coming year are: security (26%), hardware refresh (23%) and workflow solutions (23%) l Although 48% say they are very satisfied with their MPS provider, 65% of organisations are open to change, with 26% saying they will definitely switch provider at the end of their contract l Most organisations are seeking to standardise on single vendor fleets managed by one MPS provider. “As customer loyalty continues to weaken, with almost two-thirds of organisations considering switching suppliers, MPS providers need to strengthen and diversify their propositions to retain existing customers and attract new clients,” added Louella. “Incumbent MPS providers must ensure they have a strong profile during discussions about hardware refreshment to avoid losing out to competitors. “Our research shows that IT expertise is now the top selection factor for MPS providers, followed by cybersecurity expertise and workflow automation competency. As providers compete for contracts to undertake major hardware renewal programmes, they

Louella Fernandes ceo

quocirca.com

NEWS

must refine and articulate their capabilities in these areas. Building partnerships with complementary technology providers will be an important success factor.” The study also showed evidence that satisfaction gaps persist in certain areas. The top three challenges organisations are experiencing around print management are reducing its environmental impact (38%) – which has ascended the agenda from third place in 2023 – controlling costs (38%) and

security (36%). The study found that MPS is underperforming in satisfaction terms in all three areas. “MPS providers need to ensure they are addressing these concerns as a priority,” said Louella. “Businesses have high expectations of the application of AI and analytics and will be looking for providers that are leveraging these to improve efficiency, sustainability, security, and service delivery. Those that fail to do so will fall behind.”

Paragon ID UK sees reduction in power consumption following transition to Fujifilm system

Just months after installing Fujifilm's LuXtreme LED UV curing system and switching to CuremaX LED UV inks, Paragon ID UK is reaping significant benefits in sustainability and operational efficiency. This improvement follows Paragon ID UK’s decision to enhance its production operations at its Hull facility by adopting LED UV technologies from Fujifilm. "In just a short time since installing the Fujifilm LuXtreme LED systems, we’ve already noticed a significant drop in power consumption,” Jamie Parker, head of operations at Paragon ID’s Hull site. “We compared the performance of the LED systems to our previous mercury arc UV systems and IR dryers, and the results are striking – an 80% reduction in power usage compared to conventional UV systems, and a 40% saving compared to the IR units. “By leveraging Fujifilm’s expertise and technologies, we are now able to deliver excellent 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.” The move to LED technology has lowered energy costs and improved working conditions on the production floor. Lee Murrell, plant manager at Paragon ID in Hull, shared how the new systems have positively impacted the workforce: "Our operators have been quick to highlight the improvements," he said. "The machines now run cooler and quieter, which creates a more comfortable and healthier work environment. The absence of ozone, which was previously an issue with the old UV systems, has also contributed to better air quality. Plus, maintenance is easier, with far fewer issues and no more unexpected downtime caused by the UV systems." The efficiency gains have exceeded expectations, leading Paragon ID to explore further upgrades. Jamie concluded: "The performance and energy savings from Fujifilm’s LED systems have been so impressive that we’re already looking to convert additional machines from UV to LED. The return on investment has been quicker than we anticipated, and we’re excited to continue this journey towards more sustainable and efficient production."

Jamie Parker head of operations

paragon-id.com

Data sheet

LuXtreme LED UV curing system Convert your flexo press to LED UV

The LuXtreme LED UV curing system, in combination with the company’s new high performance CuremaX flexo inks, allows any traditional flexo press to be converted to LED UV curing to deliver far-reaching improvements to label production on a narrow web press. Productivity and quality improvements Thanks to the high performance of the LuXtreme LED UV curing system, productivity and quality improvements are significant. Not only can press speeds be increased, but job set up and make ready times can be reduced as there is less material distortion due to heat. Improved substrate stability also results in a more controlled ramp up to production speeds, and it is often possible to achieve the required colours much faster with Fujifilm’s high performance CuremaX flexo ink system. Add to that improvements to the system reliability with much lower press down time, productivity gains can be significant. Quality also becomes more consistent as the impact of the heat from the UV lamps is reduced, resulting in better registration and less substrate distortion. Savings in energy, materials, labour and waste Due to the reductions in power required for the LED UV lamps, cost savings can be made across the production process. The energy savings are significant, but material usage and waste are also reduced, and the lower maintenance required to support the LED UV curing system results in a much lower number of replacement parts, with lower associated labour costs. Environmental improvements The LuXtreme LED UV curing system has significant benefits to both the working environment and the environment as a whole. Energy use is reduced, with no energy used in stand- by mode, and the lower amounts of materials used and waste produced all benefit the environment. The working environment for operators is also improved, with many undesirable factors eliminated or reduced, including heat from the conventional UV lamps, ambient noise and odour.

Key features • High speed, up to 200m/min

• Suitable for heat-sensitive substrates • Instant on/off with no energy used in stand-by mode • Sustainable ozone and mercury-free system • 30-60% fewer LEDs required to achieve same radiant intensity as other comparable systems • 30-50% higher radiant intensity, up to 25W/cm 2 • Special LED adapter allows easy integration on existing mountings • Up to 50,000 hours LED life • Up to 720mm lamp length, scalable in 24mm steps

Download

Epson achieves platinum rating for sustainability Epson has earned a platinum rating for sustainability from EcoVadis, a leading provider of business sustainability ratings. This recognition highlights Epson’s

The platinum rating places Epson in the top 1% of all companies and industries assessed by EcoVadis, reflecting continuous progress in the company’s sustainability efforts. Epson increased its overall score from 77 to 83 points out of 100, despite EcoVadis implementing stricter evaluation criteria. This independent certification assures customers that Epson is

commitment to maintaining the highest standards across environmental practices, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.

CONTINUED

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NEWS

CONTINUED

one of the most responsible and accountable companies in its sector. In the recent evaluation, Epson achieved outstanding rankings within its industry, placing in the top 1% for Environment and Labour & Human Rights, and in the top 2% for Sustainable Procurement. Additionally, the company ranks in the top 30% for Ethics. The EcoVadis assessment criteria have become increasingly stringent; this year, achieving a platinum medal requires being in the top 1% of all assessed companies. EcoVadis is a globally recognised ratings organisation covering more than 220 industry categories and evaluating some 130,000 companies across 180 countries. Epson’s latest platinum rating is a testament to its ongoing commitment and notable improvements towards sustainable growth over the past year. “We have a clear vision: to pioneer

sustainable innovation and set new standards in environmental responsibility,” said Boris Manev, sustainability director at Epson Europe B.V. “Our groundbreaking initiatives, such as advancing textile recycling and collaborating with fashion industry leaders, demonstrate that sustainability and business success can go hand in hand. Our investments in carbon capture and renewable energy are key milestones on our journey towards a carbon- negative future. “This platinum accreditation is the result of hard work and highlights the steadfast commitment from the entire Epson team as we strive for a sustainable future. Our rating not only reflects our leadership in product excellence and innovation but also our dedication to making our industry more sustainable.”

Boris Manev sustainability director. Epson Europe B.V.

epson.co.uk

Bakergoodchild invests in Ricoh Pro C9500 and C7500

Birmingham-based mailing house Bakergoodchild has enhanced its print quality capabilities with the installation of Ricoh Pro C9500 and Pro C7500 production printers. This investment enables Bakergoodchild, which provides a range of services from creative design to print personalisation and database profiling across all industries and sectors, to combine fast turnaround times with exceptional print quality for its customers. “Our partnership with Ricoh allows us to combine both quick turnaround with high- quality print output, which is highly desirable for our clients,” said Ian Stevenson, operations director at Bakergoodchild. “However, while timely delivery is important, we recognise that the true value lies in what's inside the envelope. From intricate designs to vibrant colours, these presses excel at delivering exceptional results, ensuring our clients' messages make a lasting impression.” Simon Wheeler, strategic account director at Ricoh UK, added: ‘We are thrilled to support Bakergoodchild in their mission to expand their trade business and elevate print quality

in the direct mail sector. Our partnership enables Bakergoodchild to deliver exceptional quality at high speeds, positioning them as a go-to partner for businesses looking to enhance their direct mail campaigns without compromising on efficiency. With the Ricoh presses, Bakergoodchild is now poised to capture new market opportunities and provide added value to their growing client base in the competitive direct mail sector.”

bakergoodchild.co.uk

From left to right: Ian Stevenson, operations director Bakergoodchild; Graeme Burton, operations manager Bakergoodchild; and Simon Wheeler, strategic account director, Ricoh UK

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PRODUCT LAUNCH Canon imageFORCE C7165

Intelligence led

Canon has launched a new multifunction printer that uses AI to help boost productivity, reliability and security for businesses, as well as providing production print like quality in the office.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the breakout technology of the past couple of years, and increasingly office technology manufacturers are harnessing it to improve their products and help boost productivity for customers. Customers meanwhile are still demanding increased productivity, but also higher quality image production. To this end, Canon has recently launched its imageFORCE C7165, a multifunction printer (MFP) that is powered by Canon’s newly- developed imageFORCE technology platform. imageFORCE harnesses innovations such as machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to support new levels of security, reliability and quality for businesses. The imageFORCE C7165 MFP has been specifically designed to help organisations boost productivity and achieve production print like quality in the office. It delivers high-definition imagery, helping to expand creativity and the types of applications that can be printed in-house. For example, high quality flyers and posters can be produced with the same ease as office documents, making it ideal for short print runs, while reducing the cost of using an outsourced print supplier.

prints, improved smoothness and enhanced text quality. Canon says that the imageFORCE C7165 is the only MFP on the market to deliver 4800dpi resolution imagery, which means it delivers a print quality that rivals that of an outsourced supplier. It is therefore ideal for producing high-quality printed materials in-house, including flyers, posters, pamphlets and longer length banners. The imageFORCE C7165 can also help to simplify the process of printing sales materials, such as business cards, postcards and personalised direct mail. Enhanced security Another benefit of using AI in print is that it can help to enhance security. The imageFORCE C7165 uses machine learning to enhance security. Through Canon’s Security Environment Estimation Technology, optimal security settings are recommended on the operation panel, making it easy to achieve a robust level of device security, especially for companies without expertise in house. It is also possible to detect when changes occur in real time to the network, notifying the user accordingly and minimising security vulnerabilities due to missed settings. Improved reliability Machine learning is also used to support advanced maintenance, boost reliability and help support work continuity. For instance, it can predict the life of parts and help warn of any potential failures in advance, which helps businesses to minimise downtime and any potential business disruption that could arise from that. Better paper feeding Another way in which the imageFORCE C7165 helps to save time and boost production is that it enhances printing and paper feeding performance allowing businesses to work faster – quickly creating high quality materials in the office.

Khalid Aziz marketing director Digital Printing & Solutions

canon.co.uk

Improved quality Incorporating market leading D2 Exposure technology, the new imageFORCE C7165

uses organic light emitting diodes as the light source to greatly enhance the quality of printed

materials – this allows the device to deliver better coloured

PRODUCT LAUNCH Canon imageFORCE C7165

“

With major advancements disrupting ways of working – including cloud computing, and AI – organisations

Through air-assisted paper feeding, a fan, which adjusts to changes in the environment, is mounted on the manual tray to help prevent paper adhesion. This feature helps to improve the productivity of printing on coated paper, allowing up to 50 sheets of 128g paper to be loaded at once. It also supports larger paper sizes and water-resistant paper, which helps support the in-office production of applications such as posters and banners. Improved sustainability With sustainability now high on the list of priorities for businesses, Canon has ensured that the imageFORCE C7165 does help towards ESG goals. For instance, it has been built using 30X recycled plastics and features innovative technology to track environmental performance and help organisations monitor their impact. In addition, information is provided on paper usage and energy

consumption to encourage more sustainable user behaviour. “In today’s rapidly changing business world, organisations must embrace the latest technologies to boost growth, perform better and improve the working experience of their employees,” says Khalid Aziz, marketing director, Digital Printing & Solutions, at Canon UK & Ireland. “With major advancements disrupting ways of working – including cloud computing, and AI – organisations are looking to embrace innovation to drive new levels of productivity. “As a result of these trends, and in line with the continual evolution of our portfolio to meet business needs, we have developed imageFORCE, a new technology platform, which includes a wealth of pioneering innovations to empower organisations to grow and thrive, while helping them to be fully equipped for the future.”

are looking to embrace innovation to

drive new levels of productivity.

”

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PRODUCT LAUNCH RICOH PRO 8400 SERIES

Evolution not revolution Ricoh has launched its new Pro 8400 series, which are an evolution from the established predecessor machines that aim to provide new standards in reliability and sustainability for mono production printers.

Ricoh has been an established name in mono production print for many years, and its Pro 8300S/8310S/8320S and Pro 8310/8320 series have been consistent sellers since their launch. Now, Ricoh has launched its Pro 8400S/8410S/8420S and Ricoh Pro 8410/8420 mono production printer series as an evolution of the previous range. This new series incorporates next generation productivity enhancements designed to elevate the production of a wide range of fast turnaround, on demand applications, for in-house, corporate, transactional and commercial printing environments. Improved features include: l Improved scanning speed up to 280 pages per minute for A4 duplex scanning at 200/300dpi l Enhanced paper handling with a new ADF Automatic Document Feeder l Expanded media flexibility to strengthen

productivity. Print on media weights from 52 to 350gsm and duplex up to 700mm in length l Expanded functionality with finishing options that support smooth, continual throughput and help to streamline workflow by automating tasks l Responsible production with the use of recycled plastic and recycled steel in the manufacturing process. Quality and preciseness The series’ high-speed output and superior image quality is delivered by Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) imaging technology while crisp text, fine lines and smooth halftones at 2400 x 4800dpi resolution are enabled by enhanced toner. Precise handling, even with pre-printed and dark coloured papers, is managed by the Mechanical Registration System, with a Contact Image Sensor.

“

The series’ high- speed output and superior image quality

is delivered by Vertical

Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) imaging technology...

”

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TSC’s all-new MB and ML industrial printers are designed with space-saving and high-volume productivity in mind.

• At just 245 mm high, the ML241P fits seamlessly into height-restricted areas • The MB241T’s bifold door allows for easy access in confined working areas; takes up 24% less operational space • Both handle 8” label rolls so less media replacement, more printing!

SMALL FOOTPRINTS. BIG IMPACT.

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PRODUCT LAUNCH RICOH PRO 8400 SERIES

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In addition, ease of use is powered by a smart operation panel while downtime is minimised by auto jam recovery and an automatic purge function. Productivity and continual printing without replacing paper and toner is further enabled by multiple Vacuum Feed LCIT trays and twin toner system. Integration with Plockmatic finishing options also allows easy post processing activities. Unique selling point Brad Hyde, business development manager, Ricoh UK Graphic Communications, notes that a unique selling point of the Pro 8400 is that it has more peripherals than the Pro 8300. “This offers great customer options,” he says. “Also, there is a sustainability factor, with post- consumer recycled plastic and electric furnace recycled steel used in the models. “Moreover, the series utilises VCSEL imaging technology to achieve high-speed output and premium image quality.” Brad says the printers are aimed at a range of businesses. “While the 8410 and 8420 can be used in commercial print environments, the 8400 is more common in the CRD and corporate sectors,” he says. “It helps cut energy consumption and the digital press boasts class-leading energy efficiency.” Modular concept The printers also have a modular concept. “The modular concept refers to the design approach that allows printer components to be easily removed and replaced,” explains Brad. “It signifies that a printer is built up from a set of separate, distinct parts or modules, each of which performs a specific function and can be replaced individually. The modules can include parts like ink cartridges, print heads or paper trays.

“Although it can be configured with a minimal footprint for a device capable of up to 1 million images per month, as with all Ricoh’s graphic communications technology, it is modular. So, more peripherals can be added easily if production demands grow after the initial order. For example, a booklet maker may not be needed initially, but requirements change over time, so a new booklet maker could easily replace a standard finisher. “The advantages of the modular concept include automated workflow and superior results. End-to-end solutions from Ricoh and first-tier partners can simplify the operator’s life and fulfil other print room functions.” Sustainability considerations Sustainability continues to be a big issue for customers, and Ricoh has factored that into the design of the range. “The series has been designed to minimise waste by diverting waste from landfills,” says Brad. “It is made of 25% post-consumer recycled plastic and 33% electric furnace recycled steel, contributing to reducing the environmental impact and aligning with organisational goals for sustainability.”

Brad Hyde business development manager, Ricoh UK, Graphic Communications

ricoh.co.uk

“

Building on foundations When in conversations with customers

It is made of 25% post-consumer recycled plastic and 33% electric furnace recycled steel, contributing to reducing the environmental impact and aligning with organisational goals for sustainability.

about the range, Brad says there are several features that should be highlighted, in addition to the above. “The previous 8200 and 8300 series engines are proven performers in the field,” he says. “The 8400 builds on that foundation of reliability, improving the user experience while crucially making the Ricoh engines more sustainable.” Brad adds that the 8400 is anticipated to be released in early December and will have a price point similar to the Pro 8300.

”

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PRODUCT LAUNCH TSC AUTO ID RE310

Pocket rocket TSC Auto ID has launched a pocket-sized, rugged printer, the RE310, which can print in a variety of widths and has a long-life battery, making it ideal for applications in a range of sectors.

Pocket-sized mobile printers are increasingly in demand from businesses in a range of sectors as they seek to increase their productivity and efficiency. To this end, TSC Auto ID has launched a three-inch mobile printer, the RE310, which delivers rapid and multiple charging options, effortless connectivity and hassle-free integration to enable uninterrupted, on-the-go label printing across diverse applications. TSC’s device is suited to many tasks, including shelf labelling in retail, receipts and labels in warehouse and logistics operations, fast food orders and public sector undertakings like parking tickets. The rugged RE310 printer has been produced with demanding industrial usage in mind as its robust, rubber over-molded exterior provides superior durability in all sorts of environments. It’s certified to IP54 rating for dust and water resistance and can withstand drops from heights of up to 1.5 metres. In addition, the RE310 printer also has a large battery capacity (3080mAh) and longer battery working hours – about 26 hours – meaning it can easily last an entire shift on a single charge so there is no downtime to worry about, says a spokesperson for TSC.

Differing widths The RE310 also has an adjustable and toolless media holder enables label widths of as narrow as 20mm up to 80mm to be used with liner, while a full line of accessories offers further functionality to accomplish diverse labelling tasks. This range of sizes makes it TSC Auto ID’s most accommodating three-inch printer, according to the spokesperson. “This is important because it offers versatility enabling users to accomplish a wide range of tasks with just one device,” the spokesperson adds. “The adjustable media holder effortlessly accommodates label widths between 20mm and 80mm. It also supports black marks on either the reverse

emea.tscprinters.com

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The rugged RE310 printer has been produced with demanding industrial usage

in mind as its robust, rubber over-molded

exterior provides superior durability in all sorts of environments.

or printing surface to easily print various

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media. Its range of accessories provide further functionality to meet diverse labeling needs.”

PRODUCT LAUNCH TSC AUTO ID RE310

Easy to use The printer has also been designed to be easy to use. For instance, the RE310 is “super- easy” to integrate, the spokesperson says. “It includes TSC Auto ID's signature plug-and- play printer language emulation, TSC Console software, and the Software Development Kit, all of which facilitate integration, enhance development and streamline communication across systems and devices,” they say. “Secondly, it’s been designed with seamless connectivity in mind. Its internal Bluetooth 5.3 ensures fast and stable communication whether connected via Standard or Bluetooth Low Energy. If you want to know how fast that is, it only takes 11 seconds for 500KB of data transmission, ensuring optimal efficiency. “Set up by NFC tap-to-pair makes device pairing simple and a more simplified experience for those who are not quite so tech- savvy, while the dual-band Wi-Fi enables fast roaming and enterprise-grade security for truly seamless connectivity. A range of accessories offer added functionality and the capability to meet diverse labelling needs.” Range of sectors The RE310 is targeted at businesses in a range of sectors, with its handy size, rugged exterior and feature-rich performance making it ideal for a variety of industries. “It can be used by the hospitality sector to print tickets or issue in-cabin receipts, or by retailers for shelf-marking or price reductions,” says the spokesperson. “The transport and logistics sector can use it for shipping and receiving labels or direct store deliveries, while it can also be an asset in warehouses and factories to label materials, products or simply to

support field service. “It’s not just private industry that can benefit from the RE310 as it's a great mobile printer for supporting public sector duties like issuing parking tickets or other citations or carrying out utility meter readings and suchlike.” The RE310 can also help contribute to customers’ sustainability goals. It has 100% recyclable packaging, and the device complies with RoHS, WEEE, REACH and China RoHS. Highlighting to customers There are various facets of the RE310 that resellers should highlight when discussing them with customers. “It’s good value and was designed to resolve mobile printing challenges,” says the spokesperson. “Organisations can ill afford downtime because of its impact on productivity so the fact that a complete shift can easily be accomplished on a single charge of battery makes the RE310 an attractive proposition. “It’s rugged so is ideal for challenging environments either out in the field or in-store/warehouse. It has a rubber over- molded exterior, IP54 dust and water- resistant rating, and can withstand drops of up to 1.5 metres. It has USB type-C compatibility, so whether users are on the road, using a power bank, or plugged into a power adapter, the RE310 charges fast or remains reliably powered, offering the freedom to print without interruption. “It supports media as narrow as 20mm making it our most accommodating three-inch mobile printer. It’s an excellent choice for reliable daily receipt and label printing operations.” The RE310 is available now.

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The RE310 is targeted at businesses in a range of sectors, with

its handy size, rugged exterior and feature-rich performance make it ideal for a variety of industries.

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Industries and Applications

Warehouse & Fulfilment

Transportation & Logistics

Mobile Printing Manufacturing

Retail

Entertainment & Hospitality

Citations

Product & Item Labels

Receipts

Shipping & Logistics

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COVER STORY

Multifunction printers: the cybersecurity risk, and how to mitigate it While global cybercrime costs may seem far removed from day-to-day business operations, they underscore a crucial point: connected devices, including multifunction printers (MFPs), represent a key vulnerability in modern workplaces. Once just simple office tools, MFPs have evolved into hubs for sensitive data, often relatively poorly protected, making them prime targets for hackers. This risk is especially pronounced in hybrid work environments where devices are accessed from less secure networks.

The threat is real: in the UK alone, businesses face an average cost of

Key security threats of MFPs While MFPs have become indispensable tools in modern workplaces, their integration into business workflows can hide potential risks: l Unauthorised operations by other users When people access an MFP, there’s a chance that sensitive documents or data on the device could be compromised or tampered with. Unauthorised individuals might print documents, weaken security settings, or steal data. It’s like leaving a filing cabinet unlocked in a public space, inviting potential breaches of confidentiality. l Eavesdropping and tampering of communication data The connected nature of MFPs makes them vulnerable to network attacks. Data sent between the printer, PCs, file servers, or other network parts can be intercepted or altered if not properly protected. This can lead to data breaches, malware infections, and unauthorised access to

£25,700 per cyberattack, with one in five businesses experiencing a cyber incident in the past year, according to the Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report 2023 . Globally, the situation is even more alarming – by 2025, the cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually (approximately £8.4 trillion), highlighting the growing impact of cyber threats on businesses. To put this in perspective – that’s more than three times the UK’s entire GDP in 2021. This staggering figure, underscores the urgent need to address security vulnerabilities in our connected devices, specifically MFPs. Why MFPs are at risk Modern MFPs are deeply integrated into business operations, but with this integration comes significant cybersecurity risks. If compromised, the effects can be severe – ransomware may halt operations, or data breaches could expose confidential information, leading to financial losses and reputational damage. The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023 shows that networked devices, like printers, often play a role in company breaches. The cost of these incidents can be substantial – especially for larger organisations – emphasising the urgent need for enhanced security measures across all business technologies.

sensitive information. l Software tampering

Software vulnerabilities can undermine an MFP's security features. Hackers might modify the software to create backdoors, enabling data theft or unauthorised control of the device. The printer could even be used to launch further attacks within the network. l Data breach caused by mistakes of users Human error is unpredictable but common. Even with strong security measures, mistakes can lead to data breaches. Misconfigurations, weak passwords, or

COVER STORY

mishandling sensitive documents can compromise confidential information and harm an organisation’s reputation. l Hybrid work The prevalence of hybrid work models makes security more challenging. Employees accessing MFPs from various locations, including home networks or public Wi-Fi, increase the potential attack possibility. This situation demands innovative solutions to minimise threats and enhance security measures. Advanced security features for MPF’s: Fujifilm’s Apeos series To mitigate these risks, businesses need to be proactive. FUJIFILM Business Innovation, a leader in imaging technology, has engineered the Apeos series to address these multifaceted security challenges, including those posed by hybrid working. By incorporating a suite of advanced features and adhering to rigorous industry standards, the Apeos multifunction printers provide robust protection against unauthorised access, network vulnerabilities, software tampering, and human error. Key security features l Robust user authentication and access control The Apeos printers use multi-factor authentication and detailed permissions management. This ensures that only authorised individuals can access sensitive data and device functions. Features like automatic logout and Secure Print prevent unauthorised use and protect confidential documents. l Multi-layered communication and data protection Apeos printers utilise advanced encryption to protect data in transit. Digital certificate verification ensures connections are authentic. Disabling specific network protocols or ports and encrypting scanned documents add extra layers of protection against unauthorised access and data breaches. l Software integrity and vulnerability management Fujifilm’s Apeos MPF devices focus on software integrity. Regular vulnerability detection and updates address emerging threats. Mechanisms ensure software updates are secure and prevent the installation of unauthorised software or files.

l Mitigating human error Recognising the potential for human error, Apeos printers incorporate features to prevent misconfigurations and accidental data leaks. Security warnings prompt administrators to take necessary precautions, while features like limiting communication destinations and suppressing erroneous fax transmissions help minimise the risk of unintended data exposure. l Certified security Fujifilm’s dedication to security extends beyond individual features. The Apeos series has earned ISO/IEC 15408 certification, an international standard for IT security, and the BLI Security Seal – Device Penetration from Keypoint Intelligence. Fujifilm has also addressed supply chain attacks by developing processes to ensure product integrity throughout their lifecycle, obtaining certification for ISO/IEC 20243. The future of secure printing As we move forward, the integration of robust security features in office technologies will become increasingly crucial. Businesses must seek out solutions that not only meet their operational needs but also provide comprehensive protection against growing cyber threats. With over 60 years of experience in digital toner printing, FUJIFILM Business Innovation continues to lead in the development of secure office technology. As businesses face challenging cyber threats, particularly in hybrid work models, Fujifilm’s Apeos MFPs provide robust security features that safeguard operations while minimising the risk of breaches. The Apeos series, with its strong focus on data protection, continues to expand across Europe, cementing Fujifilm’s reputation as a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive security solutions while ensuring compliance with international standards.

With over 60 years of experience in digital toner printing, FUJIFILM Business Innovation continues to lead in the development of secure office technology. “ ”

To learn more visit: https://office. fujifilmprint.eu/ Or contact: Gary Organ, Head of DT (Device Technology) UK gary.organ@fujifilm. com

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