Synchron Markings, in partnership with KURZ, is pushing the boundaries of postpress and finishing technologies, bringing visual and tactile innovation to packaging. As a pioneer in the graphics industry, KURZ’s advanced techniques enhance brand identity and shelf appeal while keeping functionality and cost-effectiveness in mind.

According to sales and marketing manager Phumzile Dlamini, the focus is on providing premium finishes that deliver visual appeal and a multisensory experience, making products stand out in an increasingly competitive retail landscape. ‘Our manipulation of hot stamping foil blocks creates multilevel relief structures and elevations that look and feel good,’ she states. ‘These designs provide a rich tactile experience, engaging consumers in a way that simple print cannot.’

With advanced nano and micro-embossing technologies, Synchron opens up a world of creative possibilities for packaging design. Nano embossing allows for intricate details, such as photorealistic effects and brushed textures, captivating consumers with eye-catching, unexpected designs. In contrast, micro embossing enhances packaging with light refraction effects, creating a dazzling appearance without altering the substrate. Paired with KURZ’s expertise, these techniques significantly elevate the visual and tactile value of packaging.

Innovative overprinting for maximum impact

Synchron is also at the forefront of combining finishing techniques to create striking results. One of the most innovative developments is KURZ GIO, which enables high-edge definition hot stamping overprinted with vivid colours for spectacular packaging designs. ‘One of our most exciting innovations is KURZ GIO, which allows for high-edge definition hot stamping overprinted with vivid colours, resulting in stunning packaging designs,’ Phumzile explains. Overprinting for cold transfer is equally impressive as it offers a wide array of metallic colours. By applying KURZ’s ALUFIN silver over the standard four-colour print process, brands can achieve custom metallic shades that are eye-catching and reflective of their identity.

‘Overprinting allows brands to unlock new levels of creativity,’ Phumzile continues. ‘By combining foil stamping with overprinting, packaging can be both colourful and metallic, giving products a premium look that captures attention on retail shelves.’ Finishing processes such as spot UV and metallic digital inks also play a crucial role in enhancing packaging appeal. She emphasises: ‘These techniques add a premium, high-quality finish that can’t be ignored. Consumers associate metallic and high-gloss finishes with luxury and these visual cues can influence buying decisions.’

Phumzile says KURZ’s DM-MAXLINER machine takes these finishes to another level, offering UV varnish and foil finishing in one pass, with 2D or 3D effects that ensure packaging stands out. ‘This technology allows brands to add depth and detail to their packaging while maintaining high production efficiency.’

Sustainable and cost-effective solutions

In addition to pushing the boundaries of finishing techniques, Synchron and KURZ are committed to sustainability and cost-efficiency. ‘Our ECOFIN range not only delivers brilliant visual results, but it also uses thinner PET carrier films,’ Phumzile explains. ‘By reducing the film thickness from 12µm to 10µm for hot stamping, and down to 6µm for cold transfer, we’ve minimized material usage while still delivering a premium finish.’

‘This is where KURZ truly excels,’ she continues. ‘We provide luxury finishes that look high-end without driving up costs, and with a much smaller environmental footprint.’ The final foil layer, only 0.0002µm thick – 6,000 times thinner than a human hair – ensures the finishing process remains both economical and eco-friendly.

Synchron’s partnership with KURZ is reshaping how brands think about packaging. By blending cutting-edge technology with sustainability and cost-consciousness, Synchron and KURZ are keeping their customers ahead of market trends. ‘We’re constantly innovating to ensure that our clients stand out in an ever-competitive marketplace,’ Phumzile concludes. From hot stamping to nano embossing, these postpress solutions are redefining how packaging enhances brand image and consumer engagement.

For more information, please contact Synchron on cs@synchron.co.za.