Revolutionizing retail: SGK’s cutting-edge print technology

From promotional signage to point of sale displays, print materials fulfil multiple functions within the retail environment. They communicate crucial information, encourage customer engagement, drive sales and influence brand perception, all while withstanding the pressures of indoor and outdoor environments. So, when it comes to retail graphics, high-quality print technology is paramount. In this blog post, we delve into the capabilities we’re proud to have in-house here at SGK (formerly IDL) and explain how they help our clients bring brand experiences to life.

Game-changing print technology
At SGK, we work with our client partners to create a great retail experience that makes consumers stop and look. This is especially important for new products or promotions where first impressions are key. Our wide range of technologies and techniques allow us to print high-quality graphics on a multitude of different materials and to be cost-effective for our clients, no matter how large or small the order quantity.

There are several ways for retailers to turn heads, elevate products and engage emotions with print, including specialty enhancements (such as glitter, chrome, metallic, textures, clears, scents and phosphorescents) and specialty materials that, when combined with print, offer a range of experiences, from backlit and transparent to 3D, textured, metallic and more.

We combine these specialty print techniques and coatings with exceptional print quality and color management and superior design and engineering capabilities to deliver innovative retail experiences that leave a lasting impression. Our ISO certifications for Quality (9001), Environmental Responsibility (14001), and Health & Safety (45001), and G7 certifications against print quality and color match, are testament to these capabilities.

Scalability and customization
We offer three unique print technologies – innovative, traditional and hybrid – allowing us to meet retail businesses’ diverse needs. To help our clients achieve their ambitions, we work consultatively with them, looking at quantities, quality and color requirements and environmental considerations in order to select the right technology and materials for their needs. We are able to provide high levels of customization to accommodate the varying requirements of different retail establishments, as the ability to produce high-quality prints on demand with no expensive tooling – and virtually zero setup and makeready – allows us to be incredibly adaptable.

Design and visual impact
Our print technologies, wide array of materials, specialty inks and coatings empower our clients to push the limits on what they can create, leading to engaging and visually stunning point-of-purchase (POP) displays. We enhance that process by providing engineering and design services, bringing our in-depth understanding of how print technologies can enhance a range of projects.

Over the years, our clients have leveraged our print technologies to create eye-catching visuals for their campaigns. In one instance we were challenged to enhance a sign shaped like a large snow globe, which we did by using a glitter transparent ink to create a shimmering snow-like aesthetic. In another, we designed an entire campaign around scented inks for the holidays. Innovative displays like these are effective at attracting attention and differentiating brands from their competitors.

Sustainability in print technology
Sustainability plays a large role in our print technology and is a pressing issue for our clients who are increasingly enquiring about sustainable materials, inks and processes. As a business, we focus on reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency and prioritizing more environmentally responsible materials. We are proud to share that:

• We have zero VOCs in our digital inks and have virtually eliminated VOCs in our facility.
• Our latest press purchase uses LED UV ink curing technology, increasing our energy efficiency.
• We have reduced our overall waste by virtually eliminating print job overage.
• We recycled over 100 tonnes of paper waste alone last year, resulting in saving 2,040 trees, 840,000 gallons of water, 1,320 barrels of oil, and 360 cubic yards of landfill space.

Staying ahead of the curve
In order to push the limits for our clients, we are committed to innovation. We know that, for them, it is critical to be one step ahead of the curve. The best way for us to support them is to strive for the same in our printing and manufacturing technologies. This is why SGK is a member of some of the largest print, color and manufacturing associations in the world. Through these alliances, we get access to the latest industry metrics, trends and technologies, an advantage we strengthen through our research and development initiatives, ensuring we have the most cutting-edge technology now and in the future.

Want to talk to us about how our print technology and techniques could enhance your retail environments? Get in touch to speak to a member of our team.