German firm Heidelberger Druckmaschinen has partnered with Chinese packaging manufacturer Xianjunlong Colour Printing to introduce web-to-pack and digital production platform, -boxuni-, for folding cartons.
Packaging designers, print buyers, and producers can work closely using the platform, which combines Heidelberg’s software and technical capability with Xianjunlong’s reach in the Chinese packaging industry.
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Xianjunlong is the first partner to implement a fully integrated web-to-pack production line.
Heidelberger is showcasing the online platform at the Print China trade show in Guangdong, China.
Packaging designers can use the platform to access around 12,000 folding carton designs online.
Customers will be able to order customised packaging designs online using the platform. Xianjunlong will produce and deliver these orders to customers.
Heidelberg’s industrial digital printing system in B1 format Primefire 106 will be used to print the packaging.
The postpress operations will be performed on Heidelberg’s partner Masterwork Group’s digital coating/foil stamping system and a die-cutting machine.
Heidelberg management board member and chief digital officer professor Ulrich Hermann said: “It’s the first time for the company that we’re working together with a customer to invest in a new business model, which will drive further growth in the packaging market.
“We are intending to generate added value for the various industry stakeholders by creating a digital ecosystem.
“And by investing in a Heidelberg Primefire 106, Xianjunlong is underlining the importance of our industrial digital printing system for implementing new, data-driven business models.”
Heidelberg also plans to allow print shops to link their products and services to this platform as the next step in the project.
