Litho Press (CONT’D FROM PAGE 18)
dated each base color across different substrates and press conditions. This evolving data set allows the GFI COLORBOOK™ software to account for subtle pressroom variables, such as paper coatings, humidity levels, or UV versus conventional curing, to deliver highly predictable results from batch to batch. Instead of relying on a generic PMS recipe, each stored formula has been fine-tuned to Litho Press’s exact press- room environment, often with multiple versions of the same color calibrated for different customers or press configurations. The result is faster make-readies, fewer on-press adjustments, and a library of proven colors that can be dispensed and hit target density in minutes. “We’ve built a standards library that’s been tweaked, tested, and proven on real jobs,” Higgins says. “When Litho Press dispenses a color, it’s right every time. The op- erator can trust what’s coming out of that GFI nozzle, and that confidence saves hours of trial and waste.” Hiott credits that consistency not only for reduced downtime, but also for measurable pressroom efficiency. “The presses are our most expensive cost centers,” he explains. “Anything that keeps them running continuously is worth its weight in gold. With the GFIs, our colors are verified before they ever hit the press. There is less re- work, less waiting, and fewer adjustments made on the floor. Consistency to press has become tremendous.” The ability to control color to precise L*a*b* values has also strengthened Litho Press’s relationships with sophis- ticated brand owner customers who demand accuracy across substrates. Some color matches now have four or five formulations stored in the GFI system, each tailored to a customer’s exact standard. “One client might want their 185 Red at a slightly differ- ent hue than another,” Hiott says. “With GFI, we can store each version and call it up instantly. That’s a major advan- tage.” “Ryan’s not just a supplier, he’s a partner,” Hiott empha- sizes. “He’s proactive about solving problems before they ever impact production.” The financial benefits are equally compelling. Hiott es- timates at least 20 annual savings on PMS ink costs alone are the result of tighter control over ink usage, more ef- ficient batch sizes, and reduced freight and handling ex- penses. Because the team can blend exactly what’s need- ed, there is little to no excess ink sitting on the shelf or being sent for disposal. Yet the biggest impact, Hiott emphasizes, goes beyond cost. It’s about control and independence. “We don’t have to wait on outside suppliers or shuf- fle production because the ink isn’t hasn’t arrived yet,” he says. “If we need 10 pounds or 100, we make it. That freedom keeps our presses running and our customers on schedule. It’s enabled us to stay flexible and capable of adjusting to market changes while maintaining a compet- itive edge.”
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November 24, 2025
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