DES MOINES, IA—Grace Label will be the very first to install the new Domino N730i digital UV inkjet label press in North America. The Domino N730i made its worldwide, in-person debut in September at Labelexpo Americas 2022, and Grace Label decided at the trade show they wanted that press. They are extremely excited and can’t wait for what’s next.
Domino caught up with Steve Grace, president of Grace Label to learn more.
Winning with digital against COVID and supply chain challenges.
Founded in 1975, Grace Label is a full-service narrow web label and packaging converter located in Des Moines, IA offering pressure-sensitive, roll-fed, and cut and stack labels; shrink sleeves; pouches; flexible packaging and more. They are an existing Domino customer with the industry-leading Domino N610i digital UV inkjet label press, installed at their facility three and a half years ago. And the N610i has been a game changer for their business, especially during COVID and through supply chain challenges.
Grace explained, “Grace Label saw an increase in business, we saw an increase in demand. Our customers got busier. The Domino was able to turn around orders we had not had before. We were able to develop new customers. And right now during the supply chain disruption, the Domino is fantastic because we are able to put something on there, move it over from our flexo presses and we are able to adapt and keep our customers rolling.”
What are the reasons or drivers for adding another digital press?
“Our digital business has been the fastest growing segment of our business and we have come to the point where we needed additional capacity to continue the growth.”
Why Domino?
“Ever since we started looking seriously at digital, Domino stood out in terms of reputation, service and support. Our relationship started with an old friend, Chuck Stone, and expanded to the entire Domino team. The service over the years has been great, the performance of the Domino press has absolutely delivered the results we were hoping to achieve. In today’s world, when you find the right partner, you stick with them.”
Why N730i?
“When we saw the N730i at Labelexpo we knew that it had the features we needed not only to expand our digital production capacity, but the added capabilities that come with the more rugged frame, servo drive and most importantly the 1200 dpi print engine. The more modular and robust framework will make it more adaptable as our digital needs continue to evolve.”
The Domino N730i digital UV inkjet label press utilizes 1200 dpi BITSTAR printhead technology. The press is configurable in up to seven colors (CMYKOVW). It has an ergonomic design, and automated roll lifts standard at the unwind and rewind, supporting media rolls up to 3.3-ft. in diameter. An optional flexographic priming station (pre-digital) optimizes print quality on challenging media types, and an optional flexographic station (post-digital) provides for varnishing, brand spot color or cost-effective flood white for shrink sleeve applications. These flexographic stations can be retrofitted as business needs change.
What is the level of enthusiasm and excitement in anticipation of the Domino N730i?
“We are in process now of getting prepared to receive the N730i. My sales team is excited and already telling customers and prospects about our new digital capabilities. Based on the feedback I am getting, I don’t think we can get it running too soon.
“We know that the Domino N730i will help us continue to manage our business through this uncertain supply chain and inflationary economy and will guide our business to the next level, positioning us well for the future.”