QuaLabels, a label and packaging manufacturer in Ethiopia, has acquired a shaftless gravure printing press from Bobst. 

The acquisition will enable the Ethiopian company to strengthen its business and offer advanced label to both local and international brand owners in various sectors, including soft drinks, beer, snacks and others. 

The acquired gravure press is equipped with advanced features such as sleeve print cylinders for fast and efficiency operation, precise web tension control, Registron register control and high-performance dual technology dryers. 

It also features the TAPS fully automatic pre-register function, streamlining the setup process.  

This investment marks a significant milestone for QuaLabels, setting it apart from local competitors and supporting its growth in a competitive market.  

The gravure press is claimed to be the first of its kind from a European manufacturer to be installed in Ethiopia. 

QuaLabels chairman and CEO Brook Worku said: "We are a dynamic company with strong ambitions, focused on long-term success, so we need to make investment decisions that offer sustainable growth with reliable support systems.  

“It was evident that Bobst is the market leader with decades of experience in gravure printing. The current discussions about our expansion plans with new Bobst machines is a true testimony of a satisfied customer. 

“Putting the Bobst gravure press into operation means we are in the perfect position to accelerate our output with new high-quality solutions that meet our customers’ needs and comply with all legal requirements.  

Founded in 2016, QuaLabels supplies primary and secondary packaging for the food and beverage, detergent, and confectionery markets.   

The company operates a food-certified plant in Legettafo town, Ethiopia, serving clients such as The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Heineken, and Unilever.  

Last month, Boxshop, a Scotland-based corrugated box and packaging manufacturer, invested in a new Bobst Expertflex NT flexo printing press.