The firm, which for the past two years has been working to increase automation by adopting JDF, started to use JDF with Esko BackStage once the software supported the format.

It built the integration between BackStage and its in-house-developed MIS, Topax. The MIS manages the whole process from order entry through to shipping, including shop-floor data collection and quality assurance.

"Every time a new JDF feature is added we've integrated it," said Connect production director David Piercy. "Our objective is to automate as much as possible and eliminate the re-keying of data."

Esko product manager Wim Degrange said: "I believe Connect Digital is an excellent example of how real it [JDF] can get today."

He added that in addition to Connect, Esko had a "fair number of packaging customers in the process of implementing JDF".

Connect is also investing in more server power and internet bandwidth to roll out asset management to customers online.