Leeds, UK-based label converter Hibiscus has a long track record with Mark Andy flexographic presses used for printing its range of labels for harsh environments dating back more than 20 years.  But what makes the USA-manufactured press its preferred choice?

Established by Irvin, Betty, Brian and Dorothy Killerby in 1981, and now under the third-generation management of James Killerby, Hibiscus PLC is proud of its heritage and label production expertise, especially for the chemical industry, where durability is paramount.​

From its base in Yorkshire, the company extends its services across the UK and beyond, with a customer portfolio that includes more than half of the world’s leading chemical manufacturers, as well as smaller enterprises in the waste, pharmaceutical, and transportation sectors.  What unites them is an unwavering need for accuracy and compliance.

This is explained by head of operations Jonathan Filin. He says, “Our labels are required to remain fade-resistant and securely adhered over time in some of the harshest environments imaginable, and we work closely with our suppliers to conduct the BS 5609 Section 2 and 3 tests that all labels must comply with.”

It was into this production background that Mark Andy sold its first press to Hibiscus more than 20 years ago.  A 5-color 10” 2200 model that is still in daily use today. According to Filin, that press had only two breakdowns in its working life.

“The key is complying with the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, and I cannot praise Mark Andy’s UK support team too highly here – over the years we have built a partnership and it’s unthinkable that we’d go anywhere else,” Filin says.

Absolute compliance with label legislation is Hibiscus’ USP, with a wealth of knowledge and knowhow covering the variety of substrates used by its customers, many of which are heavy-duty.  These vary from 60- to 200-micron PV and 180 Polyolefin, using acrylic adhesives at speeds of around 80m/min.

“Not the fastest, but it’s tricky work and our motto is: do it once” he says, claiming a less than 0.5% error across all jobs.  With run lengths varying from 1,000 to 200,000 labels of varying format sizes, this is excellent.

With the business growing rapidly, Hibiscus installed another Mark Andy in 2021, this time a 13” 10-color press, along with a Mark Andy VPM Plate Mounter.  This flexo installation is a 2200 XL model fitted with turn bars, delam/relam and full multi-lamp UV curing.  The Plate Mounter optimizes workflow at a cost-effective price.  It has a compact footprint and is fitted with dual HD cameras, an adjustable table and flatscreen monitor.  Designed to reduce waste and speed-up changeovers it offers Hibiscus increased productivity.

“The support we received from Mark Andy was first class and the new press has shown itself to be the same superb performer as its predecessor.  If you get the basics right, the rest is easy,” he adds, referring to the press’ operation under regular service and maintenance. I’d single out web tension control, print register and minimal waste as three of the 2200’s best features.”

In a market that is defined by service and quality, there is no room for mistakes or delays, and Filin is as proud of the company’s partnerships with its many long-term customers as with its suppliers.  “We have some big names on our customer list and keep them happy by offering the right product at the right price at the right time.  This demands a high degree of understanding, cooperation, and flexible working from our staff of 30 – and our success is a tribute to them.”

In addition to fully pre-printed labels, Hibiscus offers part-printed labels that allow for customisation at a later stage.  This could include expiry dates, batch numbers or specific chemical concentrations.  All labels must meet statutory requirements in relation to branding and safety symbols.  Jobs at Hibiscus are run with spot colors and four color process.  This is easily accommodated on the new Mark Andy, which uses exclusively UV inks for lightfastness.  Customization at Hibiscus includes QR codes, hazard pictograms and precautionary statements, along with corporate branding.

Mark Andy sales manager Antony Cotton comments, “Hibiscus is a perfect example of how pursuing a niche market brings its own rewards without the need to chase volume.  It also highlights the longevity of Mark Andy technology coupled with the benefit of regular servicing – and I’m proud of our UK support team for the work they do for Hibiscus and all our customers.”