Hibiscus chooses Mark Andy for its specialist labels

Packaging Solutions

Leeds based label converter Hibiscus has a long track record with the Mark Andy flexographic presses used for printing its range of labelling solutions for harsh environments dating back more than 20 years. But what makes the press its preferred choice?

Established by Irvin, Betty, Brian and Dorothy Killerby in 1981, and now under the third generation management of James Killerby, Hibiscus is proud of its heritage and label production expertise, especially for the chemical industry, where durability is the byword.​

From its base in Yorkshire, the company extends its services across the UK and beyond, with a customer portfolio that includes more than half of the world’s leading chemical manufacturers, as well as smaller enterprises in the waste, pharmaceutical, and transportation sectors. What unites them is an unwavering need for accuracy and compliance.

This is explained by head of operations Jonathan Filin, who said: ‘Our labels are required to remain fade resistant and securely adhered over time in some of the harshest environments imaginable, and we work closely with our suppliers to conduct the BS 5609 section 2 and 3 tests that all labels must comply with.’

It was into this production background that Mark Andy sold its first press to Hibiscus more than 20 years ago. A five colour 2200 model, it is still in daily use and, according to Jonathan, has had only two breakdowns in its working life. ‘The key is complying with the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, and I cannot praise Mark Andy’s UK support team too highly here – over the years we have built a partnership and it is unthinkable that we would go anywhere else.’

Absolute compliance with label legislation is Hibiscus’ unique selling point, with a wealth of knowledge and knowhow covering the variety of substrates used by its customers, many of which are heavy duty. These vary from 60 to 200 micron PV and 180 Polyolefin, using acrylic adhesives at speeds of around 80 metres per minute. ‘Not the fastest, but it is tricky work and our motto is: do it once,’ he explained, claiming a less than 0.5% error across all jobs. With run lengths varying from 1000 to 200,000 labels of varying format sizes, this is excellent.

With the business growing rapidly, Hibiscus installed another Mark Andy in 2021, this time a 13” 10 colour press, along with a Mark Andy VPM plate mounter. This flexo installation is a 2200 XL model fitted with turn bars, delam/relam and full multi-lamp UV curing. The plate mounter optimises workflow at a cost effective price. It has a compact footprint and is fitted with dual HD cameras, an adjustable table and flatscreen monitor. Designed to reduce waste and speed up changeovers it offers Hibiscus increased productivity.

‘The support we received from Mark Andy was first class and the new press has shown itself to be the same superb performer as its predecessor. If you get the basics right, the rest is easy,’ Jonathan added, referring to the press’ operation under regular service and maintenance. ‘I would single out web tension control, print register and minimal waste as three of the 2200’s best features.’

In a market that is defined by service and quality, there is no room for mistakes or delays, and Jonathan is as proud of the company’s partnerships with its many long term customers as with its suppliers. ‘We have some big names on our customer list and keep them happy by offering the right product at the right price at the right time. This demands a high degree of understanding, cooperation, and flexible working from our staff of 30 – and our success is a tribute to them.’

In addition to fully pre-printed labels, Hibiscus offers part printed labels that allow for customisation at a later stage. This could include expiry dates, batch numbers or specific chemical concentrations. All labels must meet statutory requirements in relation to branding and safety symbols. Jobs at Hibiscus are run with spot colours and four colour process. This is easily accommodated on the new Mark Andy, which uses exclusively UV inks for lightfastness. Customisation at Hibiscus includes QR codes, hazard pictograms and precautionary statements, along with corporate branding.

Concluding for Mark Andy, sales manager Antony Cotton stated: ‘Hibiscus is a perfect example of how pursuing a niche market brings its own rewards without the need to chase volume. It also highlights the longevity of Mark Andy technology coupled with the benefit of regular servicing – and I am proud of our UK support team for the work it does for Hibiscus and all our customers.’

As Jonathan Filin put it simply: ‘Mark Andy makes the best label press on the market as far as we are concerned!’