SWITZERLAND – Swiss packaging machinery and services supplier Bobst has unveiled new printing, converting, services and, performance innovations to support its customers in digitalizing the packaging supply chain.

The company has introduced a new ‘Tool Management’ solution, which offers ‘unprecedented’ control over the TooLink-equipped dies, integrates tool makers, and helps keeps track of tool performance, maintenance and orders.

For the flexible packaging sector, the company is bringing three new machines, including the VISION K5 HS metalliser, NOVA MW laminator, and VISION CI for paper applications, which are scheduled to be launched in June, July, and in the fourth quarter of this year, respectively.

The machines are expected to help BOBST address the increasing demands for more environmentally responsible materials in the flexible packaging market.

For the labels industry, the company has introduced a 530mm High-Performance semi-rotary die-cutter and has expanded its die-cutting portfolio to meet the needs of every converter.

The business will soon launch an update of its Digital Master series, including a new ‘BOBST Sphere’ user interface.

The innovations and efforts align with the company’s vision of ‘Connect’, to fully digitalize the packaging supply chain and improve packaging productivity using a cloud-based digital platform.

Bobst Group CEO Jean-Pascal Bobst said: “The packaging industry is amid a digital revolution, forcing every company to innovate, challenge their approach, think end to end and digital, and leverage networks and platforms to deliver new business models for their clients.

“The new solutions announced today are the latest in a line of continuous innovation to help our customers thrive in this new reality together.”

Additionally, the new Tool Management platform comes as an addition to BOBST’s previously introduced ACCUCHECK Recipe Management system, which helps remotely prepare an inspection recipe based on an artwork file.

New Competence Center in Georgia

Meanwhile, Bobst North America, a subsidiary of BOBST, has announced its plan to open a brand-new Competence Center in Atlanta, Georgia, featuring its latest flexible packaging and label printing technology.

The center will provide a unique opportunity for converters and brand owners to come and see BOBST’s pioneering technologies in wide-web and narrow-web flexo, digital, flexo and hybrid printing, and lamination.

According to the company, the new Competence Center demonstrates its commitment to effectively supporting its clients in the US, offering the ability to view, understand and test printing and converting solutions directly.

The facilities provide the ideal environment for clients to conduct trial runs and laboratory analyses, without disrupting their planned production schedules in their factories.

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