Facing the trend of a decreasing circulation in the newspaper industry, the decision to reengineer their publishing and printing opened the door to new opportunities for the company by using Kodak’s novel technology. UNIC along with Inigraph and Hubert Pedurand served as consultants for the project providing keen insights to the dynamics of new business models associated with regionalized news creation and distribution.

At the printing plant in Avesnes-sur-Helpe, Sogemedia will be using Manroland FoldLine, equipment to complete its digital transition and to ensure consistency throughout the process.  As part of its transformation to a digital news organization, Sogemedia has created a new company, ‘DigitaPrint’ to fully embrace a localized approach to advertising and media as it aims to deliver “one newspaper for each person, one solution for all.” Project partners Le Journal de la Haute Marne, La Semaine de l’Allier and Liberté Hebdo will also benefit from the new press.

Jean Pierre de Kerraoul, President of Sogemedia, said, “We are entering an exciting era of personalized print.  As a news organization we want to be at the forefront of content that is tailored and bespoke to our many audiences. This will also provide huge opportunities for our advertisers as we improve the relevance and price of ad space with the inclusion of micro-zoning of ads and content, as well as shorter runs and the introduction of variable editions related to neighbourhood news.”

Philip Cullimore, Sr. VP of Kodak, and President, Enterprise Inkjet Systems Division, Kodak, said: “There is huge potential for the newspaper industry to capitalize on the options presented by digital news printing. Sogemedia has recognized this opportunity.  The Prosper 6000 delivers more connected and relevant content at a local level, direct to the news stand, engaging new readers but also ensuring advertisers can be more targeted and in tune with their audience.”

The PROSPER 6000 Presses reset industry standards, providing an unmatched combination of outstanding quality, day-to-day productivity, and compelling economics. They leverage an advanced feature set and next-generation capabilities unlike any press on the market. And innovations in transport, drying, and writing systems—as well as the KODAK 700 Print Manager DFE/Controller—combine to deliver the highest levels of reliability, print speed, application flexibility, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness.

About Kodak
Kodak is a technology company focused on imaging. We provide – directly and through partnerships with other innovative companies – hardware, software, consumables and services to customers in graphic arts, commercial print, publishing, packaging, electronic displays, entertainment and commercial films, and consumer products markets. With our world-class R&D capabilities, innovative solutions portfolio and highly trusted brand, Kodak is helping customers around the globe to sustainably grow their own businesses and enjoy their lives. For additional information on Kodak, visit us at http://www.kodak.com, follow us on Twitter @Kodak, or like us on Facebook at KodakNow.