Since 1976, Daicolo (Osaka) has been the leading manufacturer of school albums in Japan. Printed graduation albums have a long-standing tradition in Japan. Each person is handed such an album as a commemorative gift at the graduation ceremony of kindergarten, elementary school, junior high school and high school. It is an irreplaceable item that is full of fond memories, and most people never throw the albums away, but keep them for life.

In 2002, Daicolo introduced its first Agfa Graphics CtP system, which was followed by another eleven systems over the years. In 2006, Daicolo started using Agfa Graphics’ chemistry-free Azura plate and 240lpi Sublima screening. As such they produce albums that are more beautiful thanks to the higher quality, reduced moire and the improved coloration.

"We are receiving high recognition and many repeat orders from customers who have experienced the quality of our graduation albums," said Mr. Shusaku Matsumoto, President of Daicolo. "Daicolo has also received many awards in the 'Sublima Printing Contest', which is held annually by Agfa Graphics Japan."  At a press conference in September, Agfa Graphics Japan (Tokyo) and Daicolo Co., Ltd. (Osaka) announced that Daicolo’s cumulative use of Agfa Graphics’ Azura chemistry-free CtP plates has exceeded 1 million m2. The announcement was followed by a celebration, signaling the launch of Agfa Graphics’ “Ten Years of Azura” campaign.