Interview with Dr. Vroni Walter, Head of Research and Development

8 October 2021, Neusäß

How did you become Head of Research and Development at a leading manufacturer of printing inks?

I was able to start my career at Epple directly after completing my doctorate in organic chemistry in 2017. After initially gaining experience as a team leader in the development department, I took over responsibility for the R&D area last year. In doing so, my tasks go far beyond pure development work. In addition to product development, I am also responsible for quality assurance and HSE management - i.e. health, safety, environment - at Epple.

So R&D is a department with many interfaces to the company?

That's right. We can conduct very focused research and development. At the same time, however, we maintain close cooperation with almost all areas of the company. In my R&D responsibility in particular, I work intensively with Purchasing, Production and Product Line Management. Because a cross-departmental mindset, close internal networking and speed of action are the great strengths of medium-sized companies and thus also of Epple.

What are the major challenges for a developer in the printing ink industry?

Firstly, there is the issue of raw materials. These are subject to increasing regulation, are in short supply and under price pressure. The dependence on complex, global supply chains often makes it difficult to procure raw materials as desired. In addition, society and customers are demanding innovative print products, especially in the packaging segment.

Is there an example of an innovative product development?

I immediately think of our new BoFood® DFC series. The ink is suitable for direct contact - i.e. also for the insides - of food packaging. We have pushed ahead with intensive analyses and selected the raw materials very carefully. The result is BoFood® DFC, a series that is very strong in color and shows excellent running behavior.

What motivates you in particular for your future R&D work?

The development of innovative and also sustainable solutions is the great challenge of our time for companies in all sectors. Here, we as the printing and ink industry can make an important contribution. I would therefore like to use my full knowledge and especially promote the topic of environmentally friendly printing inks and processes. All in the interests of nature, society, our customers and, of course, Epple Druckfarben.