Author: Ted Lin

August 21, 2018

Place your orders! The highly anticipated Hop‑Syn GO® grade, developed exclusively for the HP Indigo presses, is now available! The durable synthetic paper is scuff- and tear-resistant, ideal for menus, identification cards, P‑O‑P signage, retail tags, and more.

A Proven Winner
“Hop‑Syn GO is super easy to run. Other synthetic papers require a lot of tweaks. With Hop‑Syn, it’s push-button,” comments a NJ-based HP Indigo HP7900 customer.

“Our customers turn to us for consistently high-quality, durable substrates, and we’re proud to report that the Hop-Syn GO grade exceeds expectations. Customers are delighted by the print performance and attractive price point,” comments Jack Smith, Senior Vice President of Hop Industries.

Weather resistant and 100% recyclable, Hop-Syn GO is a surface-treated, clay-coated, calendered polypropylene substrate. Its unique composition offers superb ink adhesion and high-quality graphic imaging unlike any other synthetic paper for the HP Indigo press.

Hop-Syn GO synthetic paper produces vibrant imaging with 85-90% opacity. Its smooth matte finish is printable on both sides. Hop-Syn GO is UV resistant up to 3 months outdoors and can be scored and grommeted.

In-House Converting
Immediately available, Hop-Syn GO can be shipped from Hop Industries’ NJ warehouse, within 24-hours, like all Hop-Syn grades.

The GO grade comes in stock sheet sizes including 12 x 18 in, 13 x 19 in, 20.5 x 29.5 in, and 55 in stock roll width.

In-house converting provides customers with the exact measurements and quantities for their projects. Slit rolls are available from 1-in up to 54-in    .

Contact the Hop-Syn synthetic paper experts to receive free test samples of Hop-Syn GO, technical information or a price quote. For more information, call 201.438.6200.

 

August 14, 2018

The Hop Industries team is gearing up for a busy fall trade show season! See Hop-Syn  in a series of live demonstrations and crowd-pleasing drawings at the following events:

Attendees at each Expo can also receive Hop’s new how-to booklet and product guide for its popular synthetic paper line. Additionally, Hop experts will be on hand to answer questions about the various uses of Hop-Syn synthetic paper in digital UV and LED inkjet,  conventional offset, screen and thermal printing.

A Grade for Every Application
Hop-Syn is available in a range of paper grades for P-O-P displays, transit signs, ID cards, and more. Attendees at the Expos can receive free samples of its product line, which includes the following:

  • Hop-Syn G1: FOLDS WITHOUT SCORING
    Hop-Syn G1 is a white, opaque, tear-resistant synthetic paper made from a unique mixture of calcium carbonate and polypropylene resin. Manufactured by calendar into a single layered substrate, the G1 grade is made with additional fillers to improve its folding capability, along with its brightness and opacity.
  • Hop-Syn G2: MASSIVE THICKNESS
    Hop-Syn G2 is a heavy-gauge synthetic paper that is a superior alternative to conventional plastic. The G2 grade is a single-layer substrate manufactured by calendar from a unique mixture of calcium carbonate and polypropylene resin. Added whitening agents improve its sheet brightness and opacity up to 93 percent.
  • Hop-Syn GO: SYNTHETIC PAPER FOR HP INDIGO
    Hop-Syn GO is a durable, waterproof synthetic paper that delivers high-quality output for most HP Indigo digital press models.
  • Hop-Syn XT: WHEN TEAR RESISTANCE MATTERS
    Hop-Syn XT is an extra–tear-resistant synthetic paper made from a unique mixture of calcium carbonate and polypropylene resin. The XT grade is manufactured with UV inhibitors and additional whitening agents to improve its sheet brightness and opacity up to 94 percent.
  • Hop-Syn TO: HIGH OPACITY STOPS LIGHT
    Hop-Syn TO is an extra opaque, tear-resistant synthetic paper made from a unique mixture of calcium carbonate and polypropylene resin. Manufactured by calendar into a single-layer substrate, the TO grade is made with additional whitening agents and fillers to improve its sheet brightness up to 94 percent and opacity up to 99 percent.
  • Hop-Syn DL: BRIGHT WHITE SURFACE
    Hop-Syn DL grade is a clay-coated biaxially oriented polypropylene synthetic paper that is light enough to float on water but still strong enough to withstand water, grease, chemicals, sunlight and tearing. The high brightness, high opacity and high dyne level of DL’s smooth clay coated surface yields high-color resolution with superb print definition.
  • Hop-Syn BL: TRANSLUCENT WHITE
    Hop-Syn BL is a white, translucent polypropylene sheet designed for printing back-lit P-O-P signs and displays. The BL grade is a high-impact, tear-resistant synthetic paper manufactured to meet the highest standards in the back-lit sign industry. Hop-Syn BL is a rigid, weather-resistant, UV-durable substrate suitable for use in outdoor applications for up to one year under direct sunlight.

See you at the Expos! For questions or more information visit www.hopsyn.com or call 800-524-0757.

July 31, 2018

Sun and water are two elements that drive many people outdoors. They also happen to be the same elements that drive brands to use the durable Hop-Syn synthetic paper for UV-resistant and waterproof menus, maps, signs, and more. Environmentally-friendly, Hop-Syn makes the outdoor experience enjoyable.

Let those maps get rained on. Say goodbye to menus with frayed corners at that al fresco cafe. See outdoor signs in spite of the sun’s direct rays. When it’s printed on Hop-Syn, it will stand the test of time.

The versatile substrate has wide range of physical and printing properties to fit a variety of applications. Its high-quality results and economical price also score points for print service providers (PSPs).

That was then. This is now.
Before, most outdoor printed materials were produced on 100% extruded plastic or on laminated pulp-paper. However, these traditional substrates do not hold up well over time. They breakdown, discolor, turn brittle, shrink, or delaminate when exposed to water, rain, snow, extreme temperature change or direct sunlight.

Instead, PSPs opt for Hop-Syn synthetic paper for a range of applications, such as signs and banners, maps, charts, instruction manuals, guidebooks, license plates, horticultural plant tags, warrantee tags, lumber tags, wristbands, identification cards and tickets for outdoor theme parks and concerts.

Synthetic paper versus pulp-paper
Hop-Syn synthetic paper is one of the leading alternatives to extruded plastic or laminated pulp-paper. The durable substrate is made from a unique blend of polypropylene resin and calcium carbonate. Unlike conventional paper or laminated paper, Hop-Syn is a single layered substrate that does not absorb moisture or delaminate. Even under extreme outdoor weather conditions, Hop-Syn will retain its strength, form and structural integrity.

The advantages of using Hop-Syn for outdoor applications
Hop-Syn combines the versatility of traditional paper with the durability of plastic.

Waterproof – Unlike conventional paper, Hop-Syn does not absorb moisture. Even when completely submerged in water, Hop-Syn will not shrink, fade or distort.

Tear Resistant – Hop-Syn’s polypropylene construction offers better dimensionally stability, UV- and tear-resistant properties over conventional paper and most plastics.

Long Lasting – Hop-Syn’s single layered construction offers extreme durability and scuff-resistance. Its ultra-smooth finish does not absorb moisture, oil, or stains and can be easily wiped clean.

Temperature Resistant Hop-Syn’s dimensional stability will not distort under extreme temperature conditions (-50F up to 220F) whether outdoors or when exposed to curing lamps.

Flexible and Foldable – Hop-Syn resists wrinkles from frequent handling. The synthetic paper can be easily folded into multiple panels, similar to a paper map.

Razor Sharp Detail – Hop-Syn holds ink colors extremely well. Since there is no ink spread or absorption, Hop-Syn can be easily printed with precise details by conventional offset, flexo and digital printing processes.

Environmentally Friendly – Made from polypropylene resin and calcium carbonate, Hop-Syn is totally “tree-free” and 100% recyclable.

Range of Outdoor Applications
Hop-Syn synthetic paper is ideal for printing indoor and outdoor signs, posters, block-out window displays, backlit transit displays, P-O-P hang signs, banners, menus, durable tags, labels and much more. Its waterproof, tear resistant and UV-resistant properties protect it against sunlight, moisture and extreme temperature changes. Hop-Syn can be used in the following applications:

  • Recreational maps (hiking, fishing, cycling, snowmobiling)
  • Training manuals, instruction manuals, parts manuals and schematics
  • Outdoor guidebooks, cookbooks, boating charts for ocean and inland waterways
  • Tags for horticultural plants, lumber, license plates, hunting, outdoor concerts, amusement parks, skiing and warrantee tags for a variety of outdoor equipment
  • Indoor or outdoor retail signs, posters and banners that need to protect the printed image from tearing, distorting, change in color or from becoming brittle when exposed to harsh conditions
  • Backlit transit display for outdoor bus shelters and train stations
  • Identification cards, membership cards, loyalty cards, gift cards
  • Annual academic school planners and journals
  • Menus for indoor and outdoor restaurants

In addition to these applications, customers are creating new ways of using Hop-Syn synthetic paper. Contact the Hop-Syn synthetic paper experts to receive free test samples, technical information or a price quote. For more information, call 201.438.6200.

 

June 25, 2018

Few things do more to communicate a restaurant’s quality and personality than its menu. This is why more restaurant chains and their design agencies choose Hop-Syn synthetic paper for their menus. Food and drinks just look more appetizing when printed on Hop-Syn synthetic paper.

In addition to its visual impact, Hop-Syn paper menus hold up under harsh conditions, outlasting laminated menus, at a fraction of the cost and without the environmental implications.

Whether it’s dinner, dessert, bar and pool menus that need to be durable, waterproof and UV resistant, restaurant chains are rest assured that when their menus are printed on Hop-Syn, they’re protected. Hop-Syn printed menus are resistant from scratching, scuffing, and damage from water, grease, oil, and rough handling. Print service providers (PSPs) also like environmentally-friendly substrate because it produces a more vibrant color and natural, pulp-paper look than lamination.

Hop-Syn Can Take the Heat
Hop-Syn paper menus are ideal for indoor or outdoor use, and can even be exposed to the heat of a dishwasher.

“Menus printed on Hop-Syn synthetic paper look better and last longer than those printed on plastic or laminated paper,” comments Jack Smith, Senior Vice President, Hop Industries Corporation.

Several factors contribute to Hop-Syn’s exceptional print quality. These include its uniform gauge thickness (+/-5%), high temperature resistance, UV inhibitors, and the ability to allow ink to anchor onto its smooth matte surface. Hop-Syn printed menus are protected when exposed to spills, stains and frequent cleaning, especially in a restaurant environment.

Recommended Product Grades and Attributes

  • HEAVY GAUGE HOP-SYN G2 is ideal for single sheet or multi-panel menus with a scuff free surface resistance to water, alcohol, grease, oil and hot coffee. Hop-Syn G2 comes in a variety of gauge thickness (.012, .015 and .020) that offers a rigid, durable construction that is easily printable via offset, screen, UV inkjet and latex inkjet processes.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT HOP-SYN XT is ideal for insert pages that can be used as a text page. It can be wire bound or hot melt glued inside a book cover. Hop-Syn XT comes in a variety of gauge thickness (.004, .006, .008 and .010). It can also easily be scored, folded, stitched to produce a durable menu that is resistant to water, alcohol, grease, oil and hot coffee.
  • GREAT COLOR AND PRINT QUALITY will not fade or discolor under direct sunlight.
  • SINGLE LAYER CONSTRUCTION allows menus to fold over 30,000 times without cracking.
  • 100% RECYCLABLE and more environmentally friendly than laminated paper.

With a variety of grades that are dimensionally stable, durable, printable and economically priced, Hop-Syn offers a grade that can custom fit print projects better than laminated paper.

Contact Hop to request samples and learn more about how Hop-Syn synthetic paper can be used for menus and other durable print applications at 800-524-0757.

June 20, 2018

Innovations in ink chemistry, print heads and UV LED printing equipment have opened up a multitude of choices and a wide range of applications for printing on Hop-Syn synthetic paper.

The main reason for the breakthrough in digital printing is that UV LED inkjet equipment manufacturers have expanded their capabilities from wide format printers to small format sheet fed and narrow-web roll fed printers that can print on a wide variety of gauge thicknesses, sheet sizes and roll widths.

Designed for UV LED inkjet printing, Hop-Syn synthetic paper is valued for its print quality, diversity, and environmental benefits — at a low cost. The popular and versatile Hop-Syn synthetic paper creates seemingly endless applications.

Here are some of the reasons why Hop-Syn synthetic paper is the number one choice for digital printing.

 

Growth of Market and Media Applications
Statistics show that both UV LED inkjet, along with inkjet media, will increase by 50% from 2018 up to 2021.

Hop-Syn synthetic paper is well poised to continue to be one of the top durable media choices by leading brands and their print service providers (PSPs).

Hop-Syn comes in a variety of grades and wide range of gauge thicknesses, making it one of the most versatile durable substrates. Applications include high opacity for block-out window signs, low opacity for back-lit transit signs, high propagated tear- and UV-resistance that allow it to be used outdoors up to one year under direct sunlight without turning brittle or changing color.

The Hop-Syn substrate is well-suited for these applications, and is more durable than PVC vinyl and polystyrene. Hop-Syn’s higher dyne level is better for ink adhesion. Plus, its bright white finish allows PSPs to produce sharper graphics with a higher color resolution, which enhances the printed image. The Hop-Syn substrate also meets brands’ sustainability requirements because it is more environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable, whereas PVC plastics are not.

 

Unique Manufacturing Process and Printing Advantages
Hop-Syn is made from polypropylene and calcium carbonate, manufactured into a single layered substrate. The calender manufacturing process delivers the tightest tolerance for gauge control and uniformity, resulting in higher quality materials and output by inkjet printers. Its smooth matte micro-porous surface does not require pre-treatment for printing.

Hop-Syn can also be easily printed by conventional or UV offset. PSPs appreciate the quick drying, anti-static properties of Hop-Syn for printing point of purchase signs and displays at faster production speeds than non-porous, corona treated plastics such as vinyl, polystyrene and polyester plastic.

 

Assured Consistency and Custom Sizes
Hop-Syn is considered an ideal substrate for roll- and sheet-fed UV inkjet digital printers, such as the EFI VUTEk, HP Scitex 9000 and 11000, Durst Rho, swissQprint Nyala, FUJIFILM Inca Onset Series, and more. The substrate boasts dimensional stability and a uniform gauge tolerance, with a +/- 5% variance in thickness, for consistent print results in every grade.

More than one million pounds of Hop-Syn synthetic paper, in stock sheets and master rolls, are available in the company’s NJ warehouse facilities, ready for shipping within 24 hours. In-house converting services also provide custom-sized sheets, roll widths and roll put-ups, within three to four days from the date of order.

Hop-Syn’s knowledgeable sales team is available for advice about everything related to the durable substrate, such as grade selection, printing processes, finishing and fabrication, including die cutting, sewing, grommeting, drilling, and gluing.

For questions, free samples or more technical information on Hop-Syn synthetic paper, visit www.hop-syn.com or call 800-524-0757

 

June 4, 2018

One way to attract customers is with eye-catching, environmentally-friendly display materials. Thanks to Hop-Syn synthetic paper, retailers’ point-of-purchase signage stands out. The 100% recyclable substrate displays vibrant images, while meeting their strict sustainability requirements. Hop-Syn is so versatile that it can also be used for anti-theft packaging.

Hop-Syn synthetic paper is a popular durable substrate, made from a unique mixture of PP resin and calcium carbonate. The earth-friendly material contains no harsh chemicals, heavy metals, chlorine or stearates that are damaging to the environment. In addition to its environmental benefit, print service providers (PSPs) value its excellent printing properties, sharp graphics and durability over common plastics such as PVC, polystyrene, banner vinyl, and polyester.

While helping the environment is one benefit of eco-friendly Hop-Syn, another advantage is its diversified grades, which can accommodate multiple applications.

 

Unique Properties for a Wide Range of Applications
Hop-Syn synthetic paper is manufactured by high speed calendar into a single layered substrate. Because of this unique process, Hop-Syn can be produced in a variety of grades (G1, G2, XT, TO and BL) and thicknesses (from .003 up to .032 gauge), with a wide range of properties that allow it be used for a variety of applications. These include high opacity for block-out window signs, low opacity for back-lit transit signs, high propagated tear and UV resistance that allow it to be used outdoors up to one year under direct sunlight without turning brittle or changing color. High temperature resistance from -50F° up to 220F° allow it to withstand extreme temperature changes without cracking or distorting. A bright white, smooth matte finish and high dyne level that allows it to easily print via offset, flexo, screen, as well as by UV and latex inkjet without needing any pre-treatment.

 

Environmentally-Friendly Packaging
Consumer brand manufacturers choose Hop-Syn synthetic paper as an alternative to PVC blister and clamshell packaging for both its environmental and anti-theft properties. Hop-Syn’s durability and tamper resistance prevents theft, while streamlining the cost and size of the package. Higher quality graphics also attract consumers to choose a more attractive brand image over other packaging.

Hop-Syn is 100% recyclable under the polypropylene recycling code #5. Unlike flexible vinyl and rigid PVC plastic, Hop-Syn is free of toxins, heavy metals and stearates that are detrimental to the environment. It uses very little water in the manufacturing process, which preserves earth’s natural resources. When incinerated, it also generates no sulfur, nitrogen or dioxin gases.

 

Hop-Syn versus Common Plastics
Big brands and their PSPs choose Hop-Syn synthetic paper because it’s more durable, tear resistant, waterproof, and weather resistant as compared to common plastics such as PVC, polystyrene, banner vinyl, and polyester. Hop-Syn’s high dyne level offers better ink adhesion and faster drying, and produces sharper graphics with a higher color resolution, enhancing their brand image.

Hop-Syn’s micro-porous print surface is made with a +/- 5% gauge tolerance that allows PSPs to easily print using a wide range of processes. The synthetic paper can also print at faster production speeds, with quicker drying times and with minimal waste as compared to printing on non-porous, corona treated plastics such as PVC, polyester, polyethylene and polystyrene plastics.

 

Reinforcing a Commitment to the Environment
Simply by choosing Hop-Syn synthetic paper, retailers and their PSPs reinforce their environmental commitment. Hop Industries makes it easy for them to accomplish this.

Hop’s NJ warehouse is stocked with more than 1 million pounds of Hop-Syn inventory, and in-house converting services can customize the substrate to the exact requirements of any project.

For more information about Hop-Syn call 800.524.0757 or visit www.hopsyn.com.

 

May 14, 2018

Retailers and the printing community have weighed in, and here are the top 10 reasons why they choose Hop-Syn synthetic paper for point-of-purchase displays, in-store signage, banners, loyalty cards, anti-theft packaging, and so much more:

    1. Precise, high-quality images: With Hop-Syn’s bright white finish, PSPs produce sharp graphics with high-resolution color and accuracy.
    2. Environmentally responsible: Tree-free and 100% recyclable, Hop-Syn is also manufactured under ISO 9000 standards. Additionally, the synthetic paper meets the environmental standards of CONEG and ROHS for North America.
    3. Printability and durability: Hop-Syn’s high dyne level and smooth matte, microporous finish has the printing performance of a fine offset paper but with the weather resistant properties of plastic.
    4. Versatility: Hop-Syn comes in six grades (XT, BL, TO,  G1, G2, and DL), and is suitable for a wide range of applications such as P-O-P displays, banners, blockout and backlit signs, as well as hang tags, book covers, maps and more.
    5. Competitively priced: PSPs leverage Hop-Syn’s superior quality while enjoying a better price point than other durable substrates.
    6. PVC alternative: A more environmentally responsible alternative to PVC, Hop-Syn is more durable and weather resistant than other plastics, such as PVC vinyl and polystyrene.
    7. Assured consistency: Hop-Syn is considered a ‘dream’ substrate for roll- and sheet-fed digital printers, such as the EFI VUTEk. The substrate boasts dimensional stability and evenness, with minimal variance.
    8. Ready to ship: More than one million pounds of Hop-Syn synthetic paper is available in the company’s NJ warehouse facilities, ready for shipping within 24 hours.
    9. In-house converting: Customers can receive custom-sizing within three days of an order. The turnaround is quick, and the service is top-notch. So much so that many printers regard the manufacturer’s NJ-based warehouse as an extension of the their own.
    10. Helpful support team: Hop-Syn experts are always available for advice about everything related to the durable substrate, such as grade selection, printing processes, finishing and fabricating, including die cutting, folding, drilling, and gluing.

For questions or more information visit www.hopsyn.com or call 800-524-0757.


May 8, 2018

Company Cites Increased Demand for
Its Environmentally-Friendly Substrate with Exceptional Print Quality

May 8, 2018 — Lyndhurst, NJ — Hop Industries, manufacturer of the durable Hop-Syn synthetic paper today announces a 20% growth in sales for its environmentally-friendly, durable substrate. Since 2016, customers’ demand for Hop-Syn synthetic paper has increased, specifically for their point of purchase signage and packaging applications. The retail community and their print service providers (PSPs) choose the popular synthetic paper for durable and vivid displays, as well as for anti-theft packaging.

“We’ve seen tremendous growth in the point of purchase and packaging segments,” comments Jack Smith, Senior Vice President of Hop Industries. “Our customers value our environmentally-friendly synthetic paper, which is 100% recyclable and more durable than standard plastics such as PVC and polystyrene, and especially laminated paper. Tamper resistant packaging, longer-lasting displays, and more durable in-store signage gives greater value to their printed pieces.”

Hop-Syn is a synthetic paper constructed from polypropylene (PP) resins and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which provide extra durability and weather resistance over pulp-based papers. Hop‑Syn is free of toxins, heavy metals and chlorine. PSPs use Hop-Syn to print high quality graphics via offset litho, UV offset, flexo, screen, UV inkjet or thermal transfer equipment.

Hop-Syn is available in six grades: Hop-Syn G1, G2, XT, TO, DL and BL. Each grade is available in a variety of roll widths, sheet sizes and gauges for printing high quality retail signs, block-out window posters, ID Cards, backlit displays, promotional tags, outdoor signs and more.

For questions or more information visit www.hopsyn.com or call 800-524-0757.

About Hop-Syn

Hop-Syn® is a division of Hop Industries Corp. based in Lyndhurst, NJ. Hop-Syn is a synthetic paper constructed from polypropylene (PP) resins and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which provide extra durability and weather resistance over traditional pulp-based papers. Customers use Hop-Syn to print high quality graphics via offset litho, uv offset, flexo, screen, uv inkjet or thermal transfer equipment. Each Hop-Syn grade has unique characteristics to match the application, hence the phrase, “The Application Specific Synthetic Papers.” If customers need foldability for a map, there’s a grade for that. If customers need thickness for a P-O-P sign, there’s a grade for that. If customers need translucency for a light box, there’s a grade for that. If customers need extra opacity for a block out window sign, there’s a grade for that. For more information, visit www.hopsyn.com or call 800-524-0757.

 

April 17, 2018

Printers Choose Environmentall Friendly Hop-Syn over Lamination Report

REQUEST A FREE REPORT

Lamination is so yesterday. Today’s savvy brand owners and print service providers (PSPs) are choosing Hop-Syn synthetic paper over laminated paper for a number of reasons. Saving money and improving their carbon footprint are two notable drivers.

Cost of Lamination
Consumers know that lamination extends the life of pulp-based paper, such as ID cards, flyers and posters. However, there is a high environmental cost due to the harsh chemicals used in the manufacturing process. It also adds time and steps to the the printing and production processes. The plastic layer also drives the printed piece out of the recycling stream.

The go-to choice for a lamination alternative is Hop-Syn synthetic paper, a durable and 100% recyclable substrate. The synthetic paper delivers consistent, high-quality results using LED and offset printing processes.

Credited with its advanced manufacturing, Hop-Syn offers a variety of grades that are dimensionally stable, durable, printable and more affordable than laminated paper for mid- to long-run applications.

Read more about it in the newest report from Hop Industries, “Hop-Syn Over Lamination”. Contact us to request your free copy. For questions or more information, visit www.hopsyn.com or call 800-524-0757.

April 4, 2018

The preeminent expert on synthetic paper, Jack Smith of Hop Industries shares insight about the success of GlobalShop 2018.