Creo flashes a DirectSmile at print personalisation

The DirectSmile personalisation software will be integrated into Creo's digital colour server line, meaning its variable data services will be made available to all users of Creo's Print On-Demand Solutions Group.

DirectSmile has made waves in the industry since it was introduced at Drupa in 2004, hailed as one of the leading lights of the burgeoning market for personalisation. The software allows pictorial elements from an image to be used to create a font, which can then be digitally reproduced to spell out the name of the recipient on the image.

DirectSmile picked the award for the most innovative technology at the last Drupa show, but up until now, the software has been available exclusively for use with the HP Indigo digital presses.

Guy Hilton, marketing manager of Creo's Print On-Demand Solutions Group, claims the deal provides a good match for both organisations. “This integration provides value to our customers by introducing them to the DirectSmile family of products, and enhancing their direct mail capabilities with the innovative DirectSmile VDP application,” he says.

Christoph Schacht, CEO of DirectSmile, emphasises the deal as another feather in the cap for the company. “With this, we have won another strong digital printing technology partner. I am sure this cooperation will be highly beneficial for both sides.”