Global Graphics Software and Dantex Group announce strategic partnership to integrate SmartDFE into Pico UV digital inkjet presses

Left to right: Mike Agness, Hybrid Software, Joe Sanchez and Ben Danon of Dantex Group, and Justin Bailey of Global Graphics Software celebrate their new partnership in front of the Pico digital UV inkjet press on the Dantex booth at Labelexpo Americas 2024

Cambridge, UK and Bradford, UK, 10th September 2024: Global Graphics Software, a Hybrid Software company and the leading developer of smart software components for digital print OEMs, and specialist digital label press manufacturer, Dantex Group, are pleased to announce a strategic partnership. The collaboration will see Global Graphics Software’s cutting-edge SmartDFE™ technology integrated into Dantex’s acclaimed Pico range of digital UV inkjet printers. 

SmartDFE is the only AI-accelerated, inline Digital Front End (DFE) specifically designed for high-speed, single-pass digital inkjet presses. It comprises an award-winning collection of innovative components, including everything from job creation and pre-press workflow through to printhead drive electronics. It is built on the Harlequin RIP®, the world’s fastest PDF raster image processor, and incorporates workflow and color management technologies from Hybrid Software. 

The Pico range of digital UV presses offers print platforms from entry-level to full hybrid, 8-color, high-speed models. Central to the company’s developments in digital UV inkjet printing is the launch of its PicoJet Digital Resolution System (DRS). Featuring 8 grey levels and providing 2400 dpi - marking the first time in the industry that a digital inkjet system has reached this level of precision - PicoJet DRS is a pioneering technology that is setting new standards in the digital inkjet printing world. By integrating SmartDFE into the Pico digital press, Dantex will deliver a unique, more powerful and versatile printing solution, enabling customers to achieve even higher productivity and superior print quality. 

“For us, partnering with Global Graphics Software represents an exciting new venture that aligns with our commitment to innovation in digital printing,” says Ben Danon, CEO of Dantex Group. “We were looking for a DFE and workflow that would take the Pico range to the next level of performance and support our DRS technology, and SmartDFE will help us to achieve that. Not only does it expand our offering to our customers, it also enhances our digital platform and helps future-proof workflow automation.” 

Managing director of Global Graphics Software, Justin Bailey, shares his enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to partner with Dantex Group. From our first engagement, it was clear Dantex shares our dedication to innovation. Unlike typical DFE solutions, SmartDFE isn’t a ‘black box’, allowing Dantex to selectively implement components that complement their existing technology. Dantex also wanted a partner with full control over its core technologies, independent of third-party roadmaps – a unique advantage we offer.” 

With SmartDFE, Dantex will build its own customised solution, enabling the company to add unique value and differentiate its product offering. Additionally, SmartDFE enhances the Pico's ability to print variable data even faster, which is crucial in the labels and packaging sector, which requires high levels of personalisation and data-driven printing. 

“A significant factor in our decision to partner with Global Graphics Software is the convenience of sourcing our workflow software and printing technology from a single supplier, Hybrid Software,” continues Danon. “We already use printhead drive electronics from Meteor Inkjet, another Hybrid Software company, so we now have seamless integration and support across our printing solutions.” 

Both Global Graphics Software and Dantex will be exhibiting at Labelexpo Americas in Chicago, 10th - 12th September 2024. Global Graphics Software will be exhibiting on the Hybrid Software Booth #3015, where the company will demonstrate SmartDFE™; Dantex will showcase its new DFE for the Pico range of digital presses on Booth #6129. 

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About Dantex 

Dantex (www.dantex.com) is a leading manufacturer and supplier specialising in digital and conventional printing solutions, particularly for the packaging industry. Founded in 1967, the company offers a range of products including water-wash photopolymer plates, digital inkjet printing systems and plate processing equipment. Dantex is recognised for its innovation in printing technology, providing solutions tailored to sectors, including labels, packaging and luxury cartons. With over 50 years of experience, the company maintains a strong global presence through a network of distributors and subsidiaries across more than 30 countries, ensuring comprehensive after-sales service and technical support.  

About Global Graphics Software 

Global Graphics Software (www.globalgraphics.com) is a leading developer of smart software components for print OEMs and independent service vendors, including SmartDFE™, Harlequin Core™, ScreenPro™, PrintFlat™ and Mako™. Customers include HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, Kodak and Agfa. The roots of the company go back to 1986 and to the iconic university town of Cambridge, and today the majority of the R&D team is still based near here. Global Graphics Software is a subsidiary of Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG). 

Media Contacts 

Dantex Group: Sarah Newell, Marketing Manager, Dantex Group 
newells@dantex.co.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1274 777777 

Global Graphics Software: Paula Halpin, PR & Marketing Manager, Global Graphics Software paula.halpin@globalgraphics.com | Tel: +44 (0)1223 926017