First Labels, part of the expansive Jetline Group, has cemented its commitment to rapid growth and market diversification with the strategic acquisition of a General Inkjet Printing (GIP) Label Smart 330S UV inkjet label printer from Thunderbolt Solutions. The move, following an intensive three-month trial, marks a significant digital shift for the young company, enabling it to meet the demanding, high-pressure deadlines of the label market, particularly in the competitive food packing sector.
First Labels, which evolved from E Labels following its acquisition by the Jetline Group in April 2024, was a calculated move to broaden the Group's service offering. The extensive network of Jetline franchises across the country generated a constant flow of label enquiries, signalling a clear opportunity for in-house production.
‘We supply a wide variety of labels but have established a particularly strong presence in the food packing range for major retailers. This market, driven by strict requirements and ticking expiry dates, necessitated a solution that could guarantee speed and flexibility,’ stated Clive Stevens, Manager of First Labels.
The digital imperative: Solving the short-run backlog
Prior to the acquisition, the print operation relied on flexo printing for long-run jobs. However, the requirement for smaller, quick-turnaround orders - a common need among clients with a requirement for 500 to 1 000 labels - created a significant production bottleneck. The GIP Label Smart 330S was introduced precisely to bridge this gap between long-run efficiency and the demand for rapid, on-demand, short run digital output.
‘While the industry often operates on lead times of four to five weeks, we try to mould ourselves on a 7-10 day and quicker turnaround time - depending on the makeup. The ability to fulfil small orders quickly is not just a value-add but a critical business enabler in the food-related sector where every moment counts. This is exactly where the GIP Label Smart 330S has been exceptionally useful and very complementary to our process,’ he added.
A gruelling trial and exceptional performance
Thunderbolt Solutions initially brought the machine to South Africa for its stand at The GAPP Print Expo, co-located at Propak Africa. The goal was to showcase it to entrants into the label printing market. Following the show, Thunderbolt approached Jetline CEO, John Shalala, and Financial Director, Philippe de Coster, to find out if the company would be interested in purchasing the GIP Label Smart 330S.
‘They told us that they first wanted to trial it for 2-3 months, put it through its paces and see what the result is,’ shared Wayne Stevens, Sales Director at Thunderbolt Solutions. He confirmed that the trial was anything but gentle, with First Labels subjecting the machine to exhaustive tests to gauge its true capabilities.
‘I’m glad to say that after that trial period, John and Philippe decided to purchase this machine and install it on a permanent basis,’ he said.
Clive noted that the company ran the Label Smart 330S 24/7 to truly test its limits. The machine successfully handled an array of different substrates, varying coverage levels, as well as both short and longer digital runs.
The versatility of the UV inkjet printer extends to its compatibility with existing production, allowing First Labels to both, print from scratch or flat coat on flexo and then use the digital press to add text, variable data or overcoating. It also streamlines production for clients with multiple label variations of the same size, capable of batching different artwork on the same media.
Cutting-edge technology and crucial support
The GIP Label Smart 330S utilises the latest development of digital UV inkjet technology, which Wayne highlighted as a significant departure from older toner-based systems. The inkjet technology is so much simpler and, because the need for toner based requirements of heat and pressure fusing has been eliminated, there is significant improvement in uptime with the inkjet systems.
A key factor in the successful integration of the GIP Label Smart 330S at First Labels was the technical support provided by Thunderbolt’s technician, Andre Van Vuuren. The permanent installation was seamless. Setting up colour and substrate profiles for every material is a time-consuming but essential task. ‘Andre's expertise was instrumental in ensuring a trouble-free transition,’ Clive reported.
The dedication to support was comprehensive, with Andre spending extensive time on site to train operators during the initial trial phase and quickly resolve the inevitable teething problems. This immersive approach ensured the First Labels team gained an in-depth understanding of the machine and ultimately contributed to the success of the entire project.
A bright future for growth in Africa
The success of the GIP Label Smart 330S has not only solved a major production challenge but has also exceeded expectations, according to Clive. The machine arrived at the optimal moment to handle the non-stop demands of the label industry, which experiences no slow-down throughout the year.
The successful integration of the GIP Label Smart 330S is not just a win for First Labels but a powerful statement to the market. As a leading light in our industry, the choices made by Jetline and First Labels are observed far and wide, and the decision to adopt this new UV inkjet technology carries immense weight. ‘The fact that First Labels chose the GIP Label Smart 330S speaks volumes for the equipment and the solution that it brings to print operations,’ Wayne acknowledged.
Crucially, this success was a partnership. Thunderbolt Solutions proved to be a strategic supplier providing a complete solution. The cutting-edge technology of the UV inkjet label printer was complemented by exceptional service and outstanding technical back up, which highlights the critical value of a strategic partnership in driving digital transformation.
For companies navigating high-pressure sectors, the assurance of exceptional technical support - including intensive operator training and on-site assistance - is as crucial as the technology itself. The demonstrated commitment from Thunderbolt extended far beyond a sale and this is what ultimately converted a three-month trial into a permanent, profitable success.
This comprehensive approach that combines best-in-class, modern technology with robust, hands-on backing, is the true blueprint for eliminating production bottlenecks, elevating service standards and ensuring sustainable market leadership in the modern printing landscape.