UK-based retailer Asda, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wal-Mart, is set to implement a cloud-based color service called PantoneLIVE across its global packaging supply chain.
PantoneLIVE enables Asda to improve operational efficiencies and standardize on a single platform and manage digital access rights to ease color communication across packaging materials and suppliers.
With PantoneLIVE suite of solutions, Asda can have a secure repository for its precise color data, allowing brand managers to communicate color specifications throughout the supply chain and validate compliance and track supplier performance globally.
Asda print manager Andy Wilson said the solution allows the company to assess print quality across the entire list of its approved packaging printers while presenting complex, technical color data in an format that is easy to understand.
"As most of the print validation solutions on the market were aimed at printers rather than brand owners, it quickly became apparent that selecting the right partner to develop the solution was crucial, and X-Rite/Pantone ticked all our boxes," Wilson added.
Using PantoneLIVE, Asda can also manage its print base with true 'closed loop' color management from initial concept to final print while slashing waste.
Additionally, PantoneLIVE's centralized color management system allows to achieve speed to market efficiencies from initial design to final production, reducing product development and manufacturing costs.
Asda operates with a network of 573 stores, including 32 supercentres, 318 superstores, 33 Asda living stores, 188 supermarkets, 25 depots and seven recycling centers across the UK.
