STUDIO 399 is a company that sees itself as a quartet of services, ranging from packaging, photography and video to branding. With their expertise, they give body and soul to brands and mould it into the right shape for you, their customer.
The global pandemic represented a challenge for the company as it did for many businesses. But in some way from an unexpected source, through creative thinking and the versatility of their Summa F1612 flatbed cutter, these uncertain times quickly gave way to new opportunities.
We talked about it with Koen Vanhaeverbeke, manager and inspirator for STUDIO 399.
Koen, can you tell us a bit more about the company?
STUDIO 399 is very much all-around, but in the essence, we are specialized in the production of cardboard packaging in small runs. We do limited edition printing, cutting and routing.
Our motto “WE MAKE IT 4 YOU” says it all. If you have an idea tell us about it, and we will make it happen. Especially small runs or out-of-the-box creations nobody else wants to make, we will probably be able to create. So, if you need 10, 20 or more bespoke boxes in full colour, we can make that for you without a problem. This allows also for (small) businesses to compete and stand out.
What is your story with Summa? How did you decide on a Summa flatbed cutter?
I’ve known Summa for a while and got to know them for their roll-to-roll cutter expertise. When we were considering purchasing a flatbed cutter we looked at the Summa F1612 flatbed cutter. After a visit to the demo room of a local Summa dealer - I was soon convinced. Also, the fact that it is a Belgian product and its fair price contributed to this decision.
Which applications do you generally cut on the F1612?
Since we are specialized in packaging we cut a lot of cardboard, also vinyl, polypropylene and MDF and plastics to route.
How did COVID-19 lead to the expansion of applications to cut?
Well, our standard production was cut back. Then, the F1612 flatbed prompted us to think more broadly and explore other applications and markets. It is truly due to the versatility of the F1612 and the Summa router that we were able to quickly develop other applications and solutions that even go beyond Sign & Display.
Did these new applications lead to a growth of your company and customer base?
It most certainly did! Even to the extent that we had to expand our capacities in terms of production space.
Which aspects of the F1612 do you find most interesting?
Its versatility, I would say. The F1612 is extremely multifunctional. The fact that you can retrofit tools and modules at any given time is a huge perk, assuring the F1612 to grow along with our business at our own pace.
Do you plan to purchase more Summa machines in the future?
Yes, we will most likely buy another Summa flatbed and a high-frequency router in the future. We are also interested in equipment to cut labels for specific applications. We will explore the Summa brand again in our search for the right equipment for these applications.
Thanks for sharing your experiences! Is there something you would suggest to others?
A tip to everyone who owns a Summa F Series flatbed cutting plotter: don't limit yourself to one or a few applications, or to merely one target group. Look further and think wider. Explore the many application possibilities. Grow with the Summa F1612 and let the machine in turn grow with your business! The world of numerous striking creations is at your feet with a Summa F Series flatbed cutter.