Africa is a growing market for printing, and digital printing is making its mark on the continent. Headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, NUtec Digital Ink has become an industry leader in inkjet inks and has grown an international presence thanks to its high-quality inks.

“NUtec Digital Ink was established in 2009 in Cape Town, South Africa,” said Darren Claassens, head of sales and marketing for NUtec Digital Ink. “Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s leading manufacturers exclusively focused on digital inkjet inks. With a specialized focus on eco-solvent, UV-curable, and water-based ink chemistries, NUtec supports large-format graphics, textile, and industrial print markets. Its global footprint now extends to over 100 countries through NUtec-branded, private label, and OEM partnerships, with a reputation built on chemistry expertise, product quality, and customer-driven innovation.”

NUtec Digital Ink is focused on a variety of markets, including large-format signage and display, textile and soft signage printing, UV special application products developed for niche, high-performance requirements and UV fixed array products. Its inks are designed for demanding print environments requiring consistency and high throughput, and industrial applications, including glass, ceramic, and packaging, where ink durability and adhesion are paramount. In addition, NUtec is an approved digital ink manufacturer for select original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

NUtec supports these markets through tailored OEM solutions, private label offerings, and engineered bulk ink systems designed for optimal printer integration.

Claassens noted that NUtec distinguishes itself through targeted product innovation and technical adaptability. For example, NUtec  has developed advanced ink technologies, such as UV fluorescent inks, UV chemistries with exceptional adhesion that require no primers, and low-viscosity UV inks optimized for modern print systems. The company offers plug-and-play solutions that streamline conversions and reduce downtime for customers, as well as a dedicated technical support infrastructure, with standardized reporting processes and hands-on global assistance through its extensive distribution network.

NUtec also does its part in terms of environmental responsibility, demonstrated by its GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX Eco Passport certifications.

“PSPs searching for safer input alternatives need look no further as NUtec Digital Ink’s GREENGUARD GOLD environmental credentials ensure peace of mind when choosing sustainable printing inks,” said Claassens.

In 2023, NUtec earned OEKO-TEX Eco-Passport certification on its water-based inkjet ink line.

“With printed clothing and apparel making constant skin contact, it is of the utmost importance that safer raw materials are used in their manufacture,” Claassens says. “Our Aquamarine AQ10-DST-HC product range with its ECO PASSPORT badge of authenticity on the label, will help clothing and textile producers make informed decisions in order to protect both their brand reputations as well as the health of their customers.

“These factors reflect NUtec’s commitment to practical innovation and long-term customer success,” Claassens continues. “Innovation and service are foundational to NUtec’s operating model. Our R&D teams focus on ink chemistries that deliver compatibility, performance, and sustainability. In addition to product development, NUtec offers robust support tools, including conversion guides, quality assurance protocols, and global technical assistance.”

To enhance its service reach and market responsiveness, NUtec recently established a European hub in Switzerland. This strategic move brings the company closer to its growing European customer base and positions it for ongoing expansion across the region.

“NUtec looks ahead with a strategy anchored in sustainable growth, continued innovation, and closer customer engagement,” Claassens concluded. “The company will continue investing in advanced digital ink technologies – especially in UV and water-based application spaces – while expanding its geographic footprint through localized hubs and partnerships. With environmental compliance, performance-driven R&D, and scalable OEM/private label support, NUtec is positioned to lead the next chapter of digital ink evolution.”

• David Savastano

NUtec Digital Ink

1 Clifford Street

Ottery 7800

Cape Town, South Africa

Tel: +27 (21) 763 6990 

www.nutecdigital.com

Major Products: Eco-solvent, UV-curable, and water-based inkjet inks.