AB Graphic’s global distributors benefit from training focus

Print Solutions Packaging Solutions

AB Graphic International (ABG) has recently held two week long training workshops for its network of global distributors. The workshops, which took place in January, involved some classroom time, demonstrations on the company’s expanding portfolio of machines, together with visits to customers to see the equipment operating in situ.

A total of 48 representatives from worldwide ABG distributors, including Australia, Peru, Chile, Brazil, Russia, Thailand, India and all over Europe, descended on the finishing equipment manufacturer’s Bridlington, East Yorkshire headquarters to learn more about key technical developments and product launches, particularly new Digicon modules, and Turret Rewinders releases.

ABG’s Matt Burton said, ‘Our distributors are an extended part of the ABG team and we wanted to take this opportunity in the first month of 2020 to give some in-depth training both in the classroom and, more importantly, by demonstrating our machines.

‘Clearly it is vital to develop relationships with our global distributors to make them as excited about our future developments as we are. In some cases, we have been working with our distributor partners for many years, so for us spending time to get everyone on the ‘same page’ is time well spent.’

During the week, representatives were given a comprehensive factory tour and demonstrations, followed by theory based instruction on key ABG equipment, including the range of Vectra Turret Rewinders, the new laser digital cutting machine – Digilase 4.0, and fleyeVision, the company’s 100% print inspection system. Of particular interest was JetFx, ABG’s new modular inkjet embellishment unit of the Digicon series, which can be integrated with the Digilase to get a fully digital finishing solution for self-adhesive labels. New Digicon modules, scheduled to be unveiled at drupa in June, provoked much interest. The modules will help increase efficiency, minimise downtime and guarantee superior results.

Away from the classroom and on-site demonstrations, representatives visited two key ABG customers in the Yorkshire area – The Label Makers, and Springfield Solutions. With both businesses making substantial investments in ABG equipment, tours at both sites provided a valuable, real time manufacturing insight.

‘Holding these fairly intense workshops are crucial in not only assisting to improve revenue and expand sales penetration, they are also important in motivating our distributors. We have had some excellent feedback to date,’ concluded Matt.