Expansion of production capacity and more flexibility for the European markets
Düsseldorf, September 27, 2006 – Today Fuji Photo Film B.V. opens their second production line for digital offset plates in Tilburg, The Netherlands. Construction of the second line started in July 2005. The investment of over 40 million Euro for this line shows Fujifilm's commitment to the graphic arts industry. It strengthens Fujifilm's CTP plate production capabilities for the European markets and is in line with Fujifilm's global investments in R&D and plate production facilities.
Fujifilm produces offset plates in Tilburg since 1991 and widened the product portfolio manufactured in this plant from conventional plates to digital offset plates in 2002. The second line is a milestone to confirm Fujifilm's consistent development of printing plate business in Europe to date. On this new line, situated next to the existing line, Fujifilm will concentrate on production of digital offset plates in order to match the increasing demand for CTP consumables.
In the last year CTP plate ratio among European plate consumption exceeded more than 70%, bringing as well remarkable sales growth. This trend did not change within the current year, hence Fujifilm is convinced that the new line will satisfy the continuously growing demand.
Preceding the official inauguration extensive tests related to consistency and high quality of the plates have been executed.
"With production start of our new plate line we increase overall flexibility for supply of plates to our European customers", says Shigehiro Nakajima, President of Fuji Photo Film B.V. "This investment helps to ensure availability of Fujifilm's superior quality products manufactured in Europe for Europe."
The new plate line will also enable acceleration of transfer of Fujifilm's production in Japan for Europe, and the product range of plates "made in Europe" will be extended.