According to Maley, inkjet technology has already “improved output quality, broadened messaging capabilities, and greatly improved our own internal processes with the elimination of preprinted forms.” Additionally, high uptime is enabling Ancor to meet tight service level agreements while reducing labor time per job.

Operational efficiencies aside, the inkjet color technology also lifted barriers previously faced by the creative talent at Utilitec and is allowing the team to pursue larger customers and other jobs. “There are so many marketing ideas we’ve been thinking about for years,” says David F. Dally, client services manager. “Now that we have the ability, we’re chomping at the bit. When we talk to our customers, we say, ‘Here’s the new flexibility we now have for your utility bills.’ It’s a powerful, powerful tool that they can use.”

On the other side of the house, Ancor’s automotive business, providing specialized vehicle-labeling solutions for North American automotive plants, is evaluating the potential benefits of inkjet-printed new car window labels to see whether they might offer a valuable service for its customers — as well as another revenue stream for the business.