Press manufacturers Koenig & Bauer and Durst have reaffirmed their commitment to the joint venture they established in 2019 to target opportunities in digital package printing, and are to further expand its R&D capability.
The two companies entered into a 50/50 joint venture agreement in spring 2019 for the development and marketing of single-pass digital printing systems for folding cartons and corrugated fibreboard. Koenig & Bauer Durst manufactures single-pass digital sheet-fed press systems and software services for the folding carton and corrugated industry, leverages the respective offset and inkjet capabilities and know-how of its parent companies. Its portfolio includes the CorruJET and Delta SPC 130 systems for corrugated applications, and VariJET 106 press for folding cartons. All presses use water-based food-safe inks and coatings that comply with all regulatory requirements.
Koenig & Bauer Durst’s operations in Radebeul, Germany are to be expanded
Koenig & Bauer and Durst have now committed to build further R&D capability in the joint venture company, to further capitalise on ‘significant opportunities’ in folding carton and corrugated segments. This will see Koenig & Bauer Durst’s operation in Radebeul, Germany expanded.
Ralf Sammeck, Koenig & Bauer board member and Sheetfed segment CEO, said, ‘The spirit embodied by both companies in the joint venture continues to grow. Combining our strengths is driving digitalisation in the packaging industry.
‘In building on the initial foundations, we are increasing our capabilities in our R&D centre in Radebeul, the headquarters of the Koenig & Bauer sheet-fed division.’
Koenig & Bauer Durst managing director Daniel Velema
Further, Robert Stabler, who has run the joint venture company since its inception, will stand down as managing director. He is to be succeeded by Daniel Velema.
Mr Velema said, ‘Corrugated and folding carton printers/converters continue to digitize their production environment to increase efficiency, flexibility and to provide a better service to brands and retail. In the long term, this leads to significant cost reductions. Koenig & Bauer Durst’s machinery, software and services offering is well positioned to support and accelerate our customers’ journey.’
Christoph Gamper, CEO and co-owner, Durst Group, said, ‘We see a huge opportunity to grow substantially over the next few years. Solid foundations have been laid with the successful launch of the VariJET 106 press, the most productive folding carton digital press on the market, as well as the adoption of our corrugated presses by some of the world’s most innovative and forward-looking corrugated companies.’
