Epson Launches SurePress Digital Label Printing Machine in South Africa
Epson has rolled out the SurePress digital label printing machine in South Africa, marking a notable milestone as this model becomes the first of its kind operational on the African continent. This launch significantly expands the region’s advanced digital label printing capabilities.
After a successful installation in April and final testing in May, the SurePress machine is now fully operational. Altron Document Solutions, Epson’s authorized local reseller, spearheads sales and ongoing customer deployments throughout the region.
The introduction of the SurePress digital label press responds to the increasing demand for quick delivery times, rapid turnarounds, and enhanced customization across retail, packaging, and B2B printing sectors. The machine will be marketed through Altron Document Solutions, ensuring a comprehensive support framework for users.
This launch is part of Epson’s ongoing investment in the region, which includes the establishment of the Johannesburg Innovation Center. This facility provides partners and resellers with direct access to the latest industrial and commercial printing technologies, positioning Epson to boost local skills development and empower customers to adopt new printing applications confidently.
Gareth Jay, Epson’s regional sales director for Africa, noted that the introduction of the SurePress machine aligns with a significant market shift. He explained that the printing industry is witnessing a marked increase in demand for quick-turnaround, personalized outputs, and label production follows this trend. With surePress, customers can adapt to these demands with greater flexibility, control, and consistent high print quality across various substrates.
Keith Knott, Head of Production Systems at Altron Document Solutions, emphasized that their collaboration with Epson focuses on enabling practical innovation for local customers. He stated that their partnership aims to deliver reliable technology shaped by 60 years of local experience. The goal is to facilitate true commercial viability for short production runs, allowing local businesses to produce high-quality labels without the constraints of high-volume orders and traditional overseas supply chains.
The SurePress platform is strategically designed to assist printers looking to enter the label production arena or enhance existing operations, especially in settings where flexibility and efficiency are paramount. Key features include advanced water-based inks that enhance substrate versatility, improved drying efficiency for better film material productivity, and an expanded color gamut for superior output. Automated maintenance functions further support efficiency in quick-turnaround production.
Additionally, Epson has committed to sustainability in the SurePress product design. Adhering to the Sho-Sho-sei philosophy, the machine is compact, efficient, and precise, aimed at improving operational efficiency while reducing energy consumption and material waste. Epson continues to align its product development with tangible sustainability outcomes in industrial printing environments.
