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Premier chocolate maker opts for short-run coding self-sufficiency

Easy to self-install, cost-effective, cartridge-based, small-character ink-jet printer offers coding operations flexibility and independence.

Date codes and allergen info are printed on the packaging films with quick-dry, smudge-resistant ink.
Date codes and allergen info are printed on the packaging films with quick-dry, smudge-resistant ink.

Valos Chocolates, based in Arnold, PA, produces more than 500 varieties of chocolates and has been offering its high-quality products since 1947. These products are marketed in a broad range of packaging types/sizes and require coding versatility.

Valos wanted to do a package coding/printing upgrade. John Mandak, owner of Valos Chocolates, explains, “We are continuously changing expiration dates, and sometimes we make mistakes. Also, allergen information takes up a great deal of space on the packaging and can limit design creativity.”

After researching various new coding options, Valos Chocolates decided to try a new approach, especially to accommodate short runs. Instead of purchasing more traditional continuous ink-jet printing equipment that needed supplier-assisted installation and regular supplier maintenance, the chocolate maker made an on-line purchase of a cartridge-based thermal ink-jet small-character printer with touch-screen tablet controller that they could install and maintain themselves. The TC12 on-demand marking and coding system from Redimark has a price of $1,495, considerably less than most continuous ink-jet systems. The transaction involved no supplier company sales staff or technicians.

Check out new technology from 2,500+ packaging & processing suppliers
PACK EXPO International is where you can discuss real-world problems with experts and land on innovative ideas. Discover every new packaging and processing trend, see machinery in action and learn sustainable solutions from experts.
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Check out new technology from 2,500+ packaging & processing suppliers
New e-book on Multipacking and Case Packing
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New e-book on Multipacking and Case Packing