Skanem Africa installs East Africa’s first Durst digital inkjet press

KENYA – Skanem Africa has installed a Durst Tau RSCi 420 digital inkjet press at its Nairobi facility, marking the company’s first move into digital printing and the first Durst installation in East Africa, as the label converter adopts a hybrid production model to meet growing demand for faster turnaround and shorter runs.

The investment, announced on 25 August 2026, reflects a broader transformation in the regional labels market where demand for faster turnaround times, increased SKU variation and shorter production runs is reshaping converters’ strategies. 

Skanem houses four Bobst conventional flexo presses, with the integration of Durst’s digital inkjet press enabling the company to respond more effectively to changing brand-owner requirements while complementing its existing flexo strengths. 

Hybrid Production Model and Market Positioning

Managing director Sachen Gudka stated that brand owners today need faster product launches, more flexibility across SKUs and lower inventory risk, with the investment in digital inkjet allowing the company to respond to these needs in a much stronger way. 

The company evaluated several options before selecting Durst based on support, responsiveness and interest, with Gudka noting that Skanem is Durst’s first customer in East Africa. 

By combining digital and flexo technologies, Skanem can now manage a broader mix of job lengths, from short to long runs, with improved efficiency. 

The company has also installed an AB Graphic Digicon Series 3 offline finishing equipment to complement the press.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Mitigation Strategies

The recent disruptions in the Middle East have impacted the global supply chain, affecting the sourcing of BOPP films. 

Skanem was able to secure shipments ahead of escalation to build buffer stock, but replenishing that stock has since become difficult. 

To mitigate this, Skanem Africa has begun diversifying its sourcing strategy, with suppliers in Egypt offering support while the company explores alternative supply routes from India and China. 

However, this will result in longer lead times and higher costs. 

Gudka noted that disrupted shipping networks could take at least six months to stabilise, with rising material costs putting pressure on working capital. 

Despite the challenges, brand owners are engaging in panic buying to secure materials at current prices, though Skanem is prioritising fair allocations to all customers.

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