Book manufacturers today face challenges in optimizing production for both digital and conventional print jobs. To address this, Friesens has found an ideal solution by using the integrated Muller Martini’s Connex Workflow in their operations.
For over 118 years, Friesens has served various markets, including trade, cookbooks, photography, art, museums, and children’s books. Printing production ranges from short runs of 500 to large-scale titles in the hundreds of thousands. This variability requires a reliable workflow, which is why Friesens chose Connex.
Steve Voth, Operations Manager at Friesens, highlighted Connex’s automation capabilities: “We have been using Muller Martini’s Connex software and have experienced significant benefits across various aspects of our operations. The automation capabilities of Connex have streamlined our processes, leading to a reduction in labor requirements. This has not only increased our efficiency but also allowed us to allocate resources more effectively.”
Andy Fetherman, President and CEO of Muller Martini North America, added, “Today’s production lines are challenged by the complexities of running digital, hybrid, and conventional print. Muller Martini’s Connex helps ensure a smoother transition, allowing smart factories worldwide to streamline these processes into an exceptionally efficient workflow with fewer bottlenecks and less downtime.”
Steve Voth also noted, “One of the features of Connex is its ability to accelerate our speed to press. This improvement is beneficial in meeting tight deadlines and enhancing our overall productivity. Additionally, the software ensures consistent outcomes, which improves the quality and reliability of our production. Muller Martini has been working with us to tailor the software to fit our specific needs. This flexibility has been instrumental in optimizing our workflow and achieving our business objectives. Bottom line? Connex has been a valuable asset to our company, driving automation, reducing labor, increasing speed to press, ensuring consistent outcomes, and providing the customization we need.”
The Connex Workflow System optimizes print runs, imposition for digital presses, more specifically for the Friesens HP 50000 presses and the new HP T250 inkjet press as well as digital finishing (e.g., SigmaLine and Hunkeler folders), and saddle stitching, softcover, and hardcover production. Its modules offer a scalable solution that enables printers to optimize their entire production line, from pre-press to end-product.
