Historically the decoration of ceramics has been performed by analog printing processes.Collaboration between Ferro Enamel Espanola S.A and XaarJet UK has resulted in a capability to apply true ceramic inks to tiles in a fully digital operation.The joint venture has required investment in the development of a full range of specialised colour inks, the refinement and optimisation of Xaar's piezo digital printing technology and their implementation in a rugged industrial machine.In common with digital printing generally, this unique capability brings with it for the end user a number of key advantages –• Low inventory• Flexibility• Minimal set-up time• Every tile different• Edge to edge printing possible• Any size of image possible• Process colour possible• Profiled tile (full relief) printing possibleThe synergy between Xaar's piezo ink jet technology and Ferro's unique ink formulations has resulted in an exciting route to growth in the otherwise broadly static market place for ceramic tile printing.