Nicola Penhallow, Publisher of SPW (NP): “Many potential customers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) often overlook critical variables in the digital-printing workflow. Yet these factors are crucial for a successful operation. Oliver, let’s start by discussing the key challenges companies face when managing large-scale, digital-printing projects.”
Oliver Luedtke (OL): “Absolutely. When discussing industrial, digital printing, we are not referring to small-scale operations such as printing photos on a desktop printer. Instead, digital printing, in an industrial environment, is often just one component of a much larger production process. This means that our product must seamlessly integrate with various workflow elements, receiving design files and converting them into printing data, while ensuring compatibility with downstream production equipment.
“In the past, digital-print workflows were often treated as ‘fire and forget’ – simply sending a print file to the printer without further verification. However, modern projects require bi-directional communication. In other words, the system must confirm that the file has been successfully printed and send this confirmation back to the production server. On the commercial side, added complexity arises because multiple stakeholders are involved in the process. Included are strategic purchasing teams, IT departments focused on data security and compliance, and subject-matter experts managing the technical printing process.
“At ColorGATE, we have a team of specialists with deep expertise”
“One common misconception, among those new to digital printing, is assuming that printing the same CMYK file on different printers will yield identical results. In reality, CMYK is device-dependent, meaning colour outputs vary across different systems. This is particularly relevant in industries such as décor, where even the slightest colour shift can cause production issues. Additionally, factors such as printer temperature, ink consistency and environmental conditions can impact print quality over long production runs, requiring real-time colour corrections.”
“Software is critical to optimising print data”
NP: “Do you collaborate with printing machinery manufacturers to educate industrial companies on budgeting for the necessary software components in digital printing?”
OL: “Yes, that’s an essential part of our role. In many projects, the printing system alone can cost millions of euros. Since it is a tangible asset – high tech but made of metal – it’s easy for end-users to understand its value. However, when it comes to software, there is sometimes resistance to investment because it appears immaterial. The reality is that developing high-quality printing software requires skilled professionals who understand both software development and digital-printing applications.
“At ColorGATE, we have a team of specialists with deep expertise in various industrial-printing sectors. For example, one of them is our expert in décor production, while another specialises in textile printing. This industry-specific knowledge allows us to provide immediate value to customers, eliminating the need for a steep learning curve.
“There’s an old story about an engineer who fixes a machine by hitting it twice with a hammer and charges a substantial fee. When questioned about the cost, he explains that the hammer itself is cheap, but knowing where to hit is what makes the difference. That analogy applies to digital-printing software – our expertise and ability to optimise workflows, provide immense value to customers.”
“Our long-standing team members provide continuity”
NP: “Beyond décor, what other industries does ColorGATE specialise in?”
OL: “Our expertise spans multiple industries. These include surface decoration (wood, furniture and décor), textiles (direct-to-garment [DTG] and direct-to-film [DTF] printing), ceramics and packaging (particularly direct-to-object [DTO] printing, such as cans and 3D surfaces).
“Digital printing is particularly valuable for industries that require mass customisation, including DTG or DTF printing. Another sweet spot is craft brewers who often need limited-run custom cans for seasonal collections or promotional events. This is where digital printing shines, as it allows for short production runs without the high costs associated with traditional printing methods.”
NP: “What sets ColorGATE apart from other software providers in the digital-printing space?”
OL: “First and foremost, we view our customer relationships as partnerships. Unlike some vendors, who treat clients as mere customers, we collaborate closely to understand their needs, define pricing strategies and customise solutions to maximise value. A customer recently told me that working with ColorGATE feels like having a partner whereas, with other vendors, they feel like just another account.
“Additionally, our long-standing team members provide continuity and expertise. When a customer submits a service request, they communicate with an experienced professional who truly understands digital printing – not someone following a generic support script.”
NP: “Do you work with printer manufacturers from the outset to ensure seamless software integration?”
OL: “Yes. That’s a critical aspect of successful digital-printing projects. When designing a printing system, the process typically starts with selecting the ink type based on the substrate. Next, the appropriate printhead is chosen and, only later, does the need for a print-data generation solution become apparent.
“Some customers learn about ColorGATE through printer vendors, while others are guided by industry consultants. We have a strong presence in the market, particularly in digital-surface decoration, where we hold an estimated 80–90% market share. Our involvement in industry organisations such as Digital Industrial Printing Alliance (DIPA) helps us educate companies, new to digital printing, on best practices and workflow optimisation.”
NP: “Many companies seem hesitant about the technological side of digital printing. How can education help address this?”
OL: “There is indeed a level of fear surrounding digital-printing technology, particularly when it comes to software. Many businesses don’t know where to start or which questions to ask. Through our work with DIPA and its upcoming website enhancements, we aim to provide educational resources that help companies navigate this transition with confidence.”
NP: “How would you summarise the role of ColorGATE in digital printing?”
OL: “Digital printing is a powerful technology with high profit margins. Whether it’s customising furniture surfaces or printing logos on T-shirts, digital printing adds tremendous value to raw materials. However, the printing system alone isn’t enough. Software is critical to optimising print data, ensuring colour accuracy and automating workflows.
“At ColorGATE, we excel in automation which is essential for businesses processing thousands of small, customised orders daily.
“While ColorGATE may not be the cheapest vendor, our expertise, automation capabilities and long-term return on investment (ROI) make us a leader in the industry. Once a customer implements our system and sees it running smoothly, they quickly realise the benefits in terms of efficiency, quality and profitability.”