PrintLounge, an independent family owned and operated printer based on Auckland’s North Shore, has become the first in the country to install the Jet iQ digital embellishment system with integrated Xaar Versatex print bar, marking a major step forward in how print businesses approach efficiency, quality and innovation.
Jet Technologies launched the Jet iQ range of finishing products for the label and packaging markets in September 2024. The specialist supplier for the food packaging, industrial manufacturing, print and finishing industries had long been recognised for its leading digital print solutions, but previously was not able to offer a complete end-to-end process that included finishing.
Closing the loop with a fully integrated solution
A partnership with Polly Automatic and Xaar changed this, allowing Jet Technologies to close the loop and offer a fully integrated solution. Jet iQ brings together finishing and digital embellishment in one streamlined system with the range covering everything from slitting, rewinding and inspection, to shrink sleeve processing and digital finishing equipment.
The Xaar Versatex Printbar can handle a wide range of substrates and high-value effects. Textured and high-build print, varnishes and foils alongside the printing of high opacity whites and vibrant colours – which can be applied in a single pass – opening up new creative and commercial possibilities as well as ensuring faster turnaround times and reduced downtime.
With sustainability in mind, the innovative Versatex Printbar, when compared to screen printing, offers shorter set-up times and a higher utilisation rate, resulting in small-run jobs being completed faster. In addition, the ability to jet higher volumes and viscosities of fluids improves the efficiency of print processes, reducing the need for multiple passes, delivering faster print speeds and cutting energy use and costs.
The Versatex Printbar has added a level of creative functionality to the Jet iQ , enabling users to create striking, premium labels with the flexibility and efficiency required to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market.
“The results have been outstanding,” said Jack Malki, DIrector of Jet Technologies. “To be able to print a high-build varnish of around 100 microns directly onto uncoated wine stocks is an absolute game changer. No primer, no limitations and outstanding results on a wide range of locally supplied materials. Feedback from printers as well as brand owners has been extremely positive.”
With over 25 years of experience, PrintLounge has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality print solutions. Their investment in Jet iQ reflects a clear vision for the future – embracing smarter workflows, greater production control and the ability to deliver more dynamic, high-value finishes to their customers.
For PrintLounge, this isn’t just an equipment upgrade – it’s a strategic move to future-proof their business, expand capabilities and unlock new opportunities in the label and packaging space.